Bubbly and determined Day Surgery Staff Nurse Caroline Reed is taking on the challenge of the London Marathon to raise support for the place where she works.
Caroline is excited and can’t wait for the day to come. She said “I am a Staff Nurse in the Day Surgery Unit. Last year I ran the London marathon. It was really hard work but such an amazing achievement. This year I have decided to support Over and Above – our hospital charity as I know first-hand how much my fundraising will help the hospital.
I want to make the Day Surgery Unit friendlier to our younger patients by having a mural painted on one of the bay walls and to raise enough funds to also purchase DVD players and up to date DVDs for the children to watch during their stay – things like this can make a huge difference to their experience within the hospital.
Day Surgery Sister Jo Ward, Ward Clerk Leanne Goss, Deputy Ward Manager Catherine Dewberry, Staff Nurse Kirsty Sandback, Theatre Manager Mary Gooch – Front – lying on the bed: Staff Nurse Caroline Reed
This year I have a training buddy – my 12 year old son Christopher. He has been joining me on my cycle rides and if his fitness keeps improving he is hoping to be my support crew and cycle with me on my 22 mile training run. Ever since I ran the marathon last year, he has become interested in fitness which is an amazing thing.
When I’m not at the hospital working I also help on my husband’s dairy farm and spend time riding my horse. Yes I’m a bit mad but I think that really does help. So please give whatever you can – every penny truly does help and it will continue to inspire my son.”
Caroline will run a phenomenal 26.2 miles on the Virgin London Marathon on Sunday 23rd April, and is looking forward to the challenge.
Fundraiser Julie Whitton said “Coming into hospital to have surgery can feel daunting, and it is great that Caroline is determined to spread a little sunshine on the Day Surgery Unit so that our younger patients feel more relaxed and happy when they come into hospital. Caroline is bubbly, fun and her enthusiasm shines. She is passionate about the Day Surgery Unit, and with your support her dream to improve the Day Surgery Unit will become a reality.”
To support Caroline, go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/carolinereed2 or contact the Over and Above Fundraising Team.
If you would like to give your support to one of the hospital departments, or if you want to find out more, please visit the hospital charity website; www.overandabove.org.uk, the charity’s Facebook page or contact the North Devon District Hospital Fundraising Team on 01271 311772 or email ndht.charity@nhs.net