A small group of friends who have established an annual seaside walk have handed over £1,255.30 to the breast unit at the University Hospital of North Tees to help refurbish a patient waiting area.
Community effort now in its 11th year
The fundraising stroll, now in its eleventh year, was completed by nine women from Hartlepool and Stockton who marched from Hartlepool Marina to Seaton Carew. Their route and camaraderie have become a familiar local event since the inaugural walk in 2015.
Organisers said the donation will be put towards improving the environment patients experience while waiting for appointments and procedures at the breast unit.
"This is our 11th year and we are always amazed by the generosity of those who donate to this service within our local hospitals," said Val Kitching.
Members of the walking group have personal connections to the service: some have received care from the unit, and all say they have been affected by cancer in some way. Four of the walkers visited the hospital to present the cheque and to view the waiting area that will benefit from the work.
Why the donation matters
Staff at the breast unit welcomed the contribution, noting that small improvements to waiting areas can reduce anxiety for patients coming for consultations, scans or treatment.
"Coming to a breast clinic can be an anxious and emotional time, so creating a more comfortable and welcoming environment really does make a difference," said Harriet Anderson, a breast care nurse at North Tees.
- Total raised by this year's walk: £1,255.30
- Duration of the event in the community: 11 years
- Route taken: Hartlepool Marina to Seaton Carew
- Notable supporter: Choral Interlude choir (donation of £250)
The walkers thanked everyone who donated and singled out the choir for a substantial contribution. One participant explained the motivation behind the annual event: to give something back to a service that has supported people they know and love.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Amount raised | £1,255.30 |
| Number of walkers | 9 |
| Beneficiary | North Tees breast unit, University Hospital of North Tees |
As the local NHS continues to face pressure on services, grassroots fundraising such as this provides a practical way for residents to support improvements that directly affect patient experience. The group said they will continue the walk each year and hope their efforts will encourage others to support local hospital services.
