Elm ward are kicking off their fundraising journey with Samantha Colman, a Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist, taking part in 'Run Sandringham 24'. This is a 24 hours trail race, where Sam have to complete as many laps as they can before the time runs out in August. Unfortunately, Tabitha, who was scheduled to also take part in the run, will be unable to take part due to injury.

The ward are also in the early stages of planning a quiz night and raffle in September at a local Community Centre.

The ward's goal is to raise enough funds to purchase Sara Combilizer® for Elm Ward. This valuable piece of kit facilitates early mobilisation, rehabilitation and care for patients and will be an incredible asset to the ward.

Sam & Tabitha shared: “We have worked in the Orthopaedic department for over 8 years and have seen many patients with life changing injuries; some who have been unable to sit out of bed for long periods as they cannot tolerate our usual mobilisation aids available on the ward.

“We were lucky enough to have a trial of the Sara Combilizer® on the Intensive Care Unit (or ‘ICU’) a few years ago, during COVID-19, and it was loved by the therapists and patients. It enables patients who have limited mobility to sit and stand in comfort which positively impacted their mood and enhanced their recovery.

“In the past year Tabitha and I have taken part in running to aid our physical and mental wellbeing. We wanted our patients to feel the same way during their treatment and recovery so we decided to undertake the Run Sandringham 24 challenge to raise funds for this life-changing mobilizing equipment. We also aim to share the impact of physiotherapy on patients during their recovery journey."