I will be joining colleagues in aid of charity skydive in April 2025 for Heartlands Hospital Charity! I've always fancied it and I am super nervous, but we hope to fund some artwork in another MRI scanner in our hospital. Additionally, we are keen to give back to the charity for the incredible support they have given us so far. Please read on to find out why we wish to raise as much money as possible for this amazing cause… your support is greatly appreciated!

MRI acquires detailed images of the body, but many find the experience too noisy and/or claustrophobic. Often adults are unable to complete these scans due to anxiety and pre-conceived ideas of what their scan will be like, causing delays for diagnosis and potential treatments. Imagine how daunting this could be for a child? It's very challenging to explain the experience and not make it sound intimidating! Unfortunately, many children are unable to tolerate the scan and require further medical intervention such as sedation or general anaesthetic. This can be emotionally challenging for both the child and parent/carer to undergo.

The hospital charity has supported our aim to prevent this pattern by helping to create a children's lounge within the MRI department at Heartlands Hospital. This includes the installation of a “Kitten Scanner” and artwork to make the experience less daunting. The Kitten Scanner is a miniature version of our actual scanner and is used to prepare children for their scan. Combined with an interactive smart app which can be accessed from home, it is proven to help children complete MRI scans without further medical interventions. Several characters demistify the MRI scan by describing their experience, sampling the different sounds of the scanner and reinforcing the need to keep still. They are also able to play and interact with the kitten scanner before doing the real thing! The app also provides useful information to deliver the familiarity and preparation required to successfully complete an MRI scan. Whilst the beautiful art work has made our department more welcoming for both children and adults!

Thanks in advance for your generous donations 😉

Hitesh.