Around the world with pedal power
09 May 2014
Fundraising
KEEN cyclists and determined fundraisers put their pedal to the metal to help Southend Hospital Charity cycle around the world in 80 days, without leaving the county!
The challenge, in aid of the charity's Keyhole Cancer appeal,
launched in February at Intu Lakeside and since then has travelled
to a host of locations as keen volunteers saddled up to take a spin
on bikes, kindly supplied by leading bike store, Cycles
UK.
Clocking up an average of 60 miles a day more than 1360 cyclists
took part to reach 24, 901.55 miles in 80 days during the event
which was sponsored by Adventure Island.
33 local business supported the venture by hosting the
bikes or entering teams to cycle and the final ten miles were
completed at the hospital by members of the fundraising team
as well as trust chairman Alan Tobias OBE, consultant colorectal
surgeon Mike Dworkin and Denise Goodman, deputy ward manager for
post op recovery.
Denise alone notched up three days of cycling during the
challenge which has so far raised £25,000 for the Keyhole Cancer
Appeal which aims to raise £600,000 to help fund a new laparoscopic
theatre suite at the hospital in Prittlewell Chase, Westcliff.
Once built the new facility will enable surgeons to perform the
latest and most complex keyhole procedures for patients needing
cancer and general surgery. At its heart will be some of the most
advanced camera systems in Europe delivering top quality 3-D
images.
Mr Dworkin said: "The new theatre will deliver high resolution
3D images allowing us to perform the latest and most complex
procedures far more easily, plus increased efficiency means we will
be able to treat even more patients. It really will make a massive
difference to people's lives."
Lucy Thomas-Clayton, associate director of community engagement
at the hospital said: "We have been overwhelmed by the support that
this challenge has had from so many local businesses, members of
the community and our own staff. We cannot thank them enough for
giving us such an amazing kick start to this vital appeal."