Cardiac Rehabilitation Service inspires Lincoln 10k race fundraising effort

Posted on: 11th June 2018

Success stories from people who have recovered from heart attacks or surgery with the help of a specialist rehabilitation programme have inspired a fundraising pledge.

Keith Rossington, a quality assurance manager at Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust (LCHS), has decided to raise money towards a new rowing machine for the Cardiac Rehabilitation Service after seeing the difference his clinical colleagues make to their patients.

Keith's challenge will see him lining up with thousands of competitors at the City of Lincoln 10k race on Sunday, July 1.

"I work very closely with the team which covers the Louth and Skegness areas," he explained. "They are always so dedicated and passionate about what they do so when I saw a post on Facebook about how the team were raising money to buy new equipment for their programme at Burgh Le Marsh, I wanted to help."

Exercise equipment is used by the service as part of its exercise and rehabilitation programme, which sees specialist nurses, exercise specialists and assistants developing individually tailored plans to support those who have experienced a heart attack, surgery or procedure to have the confidence to return to normal daily activities.

Part of Keith's role at LCHS sees him helping clinical staff to understand how patient feedback can directly improve the service offered.

Keith added: "I asked the team what would make the biggest difference to them and their patients and they suggested a new rowing machine. I am really proud to be running for them."

The 10k race was originally due to take place in March this year but was postponed for safety reasons due to adverse weather conditions.

Keith, who has twice completed the race before, will be joined by his daughter Wendy Rossington, her partner Mark Buxton and his niece Sarah Rossington.

He has already surpassed his original goal of £500 and continues to raise as much money as he can.

Alison Bunn, cardiac rehabilitation clinical nurse specialist at LCHS, said: "Keith is already a valued member of our wider support team but we are honoured he has chosen to raise money for our trust's Charitable Funds. Any new equipment we are able to buy will support those attending our programme to have a better experience. Undertaking regular exercise is important in helping to promote recovery and preventing any future cardiac events. We thank Keith and wish him the best of luck for the race."


To make a donation towards Keith's challenge, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/keith-rossington.