A Leighton Hospital specialist team is taking to the Sandstone Trail hills in Cheshire to raise money for children living with cystic fibrosis (CF).
Youngsters like Violet and Jace (pictured) who are treated for the condition spend long hours in hospital undergoing repeated tests that can become increasingly distressing.
And due to the risk of cross-infection, they are unable to mix with other children who have the condition.
Now the Paediatric Cystic Fibrosis Team, who see the emotional and physical impact on children and families, are taking action.
On 16th and 17th May, they will walk the full 34-mile Sandstone Trail, crossing three counties and tackling challenging terrain, to raise funds through Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity.
Their goal is to fund specialist equipment that goes beyond standard NHS provision.
This includes a child-friendly spirometer (lung function machine) designed to improve both care and the patient experience.
The new equipment will:
• Provide immediate, more detailed insight into lung health
• Enable more accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment
• Help reduce anxiety by making tests more engaging and child-friendly
• Support a more positive hospital experience overall
Sarajane Herbert, therapy assistant with the Paediatric Cystic Fibrosis Team at Leighton, said: “We see incredibly brave children every day who face treatments and tests that don’t get any easier with time.
“Our goal is not only to provide the very best clinical care, but to make their experience less frightening and more supportive.
“This equipment will help us better understand each child’s lung health in real time, so we can tailor treatment more precisely — but just as importantly, it will help children feel more comfortable and confident during their visits.
“That can make a lasting difference to how they cope with their condition.”
Emma Robertson, Head of Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity, said: “This is exactly how we make a difference as an NHS charity — by funding equipment that goes beyond what the NHS can provide, improving both the accuracy of diagnosis and the experience of our patients.
“We’re incredibly proud to support the Paediatric Cystic Fibrosis Team and the young people they care for.
“We wish them the very best of luck with their challenge and will be cheering them on every step of the way.”
In the UK, around one in every 2,500 babies is born with cystic fibrosis, a life-long condition affecting the lungs and digestive system.
By taking on this challenge, the team hopes to raise vital funds and ensure children living with CF feel less fearful, more supported, and better understood during their hospital journey.
To donate or find out more, visit https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/childrens-cystic-fibrosis-trail-challenge
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