Donation boosts cardiac rehab group

A former cardiac rehabilitation patient has spoken of his 'awe and admiration' for the staff and service which inspired him to help raise £1,100 for his local group. 

Lincolnshire-based business Natterjack Creative has been raising money throughout the last year for the North East Cardiac Rehabilitation Charitable Fund, part of an independent charity at Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust (LCHS) which supports innovative projects and requests to enhance services and facilities that would not be generally funded by the NHS. 

The Cardiac Rehabilitation Service, which is run by specialist nurses and rehabilitation assistants, provides education and exercise to people following a heart attack or cardiac surgery.  

Martin Brown, Director of Natterjack Creative, has first-hand experience of the work carried out by the group having completed two eight-week programmes with the service following a heart attack, and surgery after suffering further cardiac issues. 

The money was raised through the company's sponsorship of Mr Fips Wonder Circus. After every performance, the circus passed around collection boxes, and donations were received. Additional funds were raised from a special charity performance which took place at the end of the holiday season. All admission costs and auction money raised on the night was added to the money collected throughout the season. 

Mr Brown said: "My company works with many attractions and businesses along the coast of Lincolnshire, and one such company, Mr Fips Wonder Circus, allow me to select a charity of my choice that they will promote and collect donations for.

"I consider myself very fortunate that LCHS have created a cardiac support programme organised and managed by such a dedicated and committed team. The level of interest, concern, understanding and attention given to me by every member of the entire team, including the specialist nurse who visited me at home, has filled me with awe and appreciation of their care and professionalism. 

"I cannot speak highly enough of the cardiac rehab group and the individual staff members I have come into contact with. I am inspired by the whole team and wish to help in any way I can to raise awareness of the importance of the programme."  

Alison Bunn, Cardiac Rehabilitation Nurse Specialist, said: "I would like to say a huge thank you to Martin, and everyone who kindly donated. 

We are so grateful to have been chosen to receive this donation; it really is a wonderful example of community spirit. Our sessions are an important part of the rehabilitation programme and this donation will help us enhance the service we deliver." 

The donation has already allowed the group to purchase new resources for their educational programmes at Burgh-Le-Marsh Village Hall, and Cordeaux Academy, Louth. They have also purchased new pedometers for patients to take home with them. 

To find out more information about LCHS Charitable Funds, visit www.lincolnshirecommunityhealthservices.nhs.uk/content/charitable-funds.