Bradford nurses overcome the elements in charity bike ride of a lifetime
Two children’s nurses pedalled from London to Paris through extreme heat and rain to raise money for a new scanner.
Catherine Grasby and Jennifer Gould took on the challenge of a lifetime for Bradford Hospitals’ Charity – the NHS charity partner of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
They are just a few pounds from reaching £4,000 – money they plan to spend on a portable ultrasound scanner in Children’s Outpatients, at St Luke’s Hospital, Bradford. The scanner will be an extra diagnostic tool which will bring quicker diagnoses for young rheumatology, cardiology and urology patients, leading to earlier treatment and better long-term outcomes.
The nurses described the cycle challenge as “exhausting and emotional” but worth it for the sense of achievement.
Paediatric surgical nurse specialist Jennifer said: “The first three days were extremely tiring, as the temperature rose to 43c when we reached France. We had to set off at 4.30am one morning just to avoid cycling in the extreme heat. On the fourth day we cycled through torrential rain and it was much colder, which in itself brought difficulties.
“We were very emotional when we reached the Eiffel Tower and had a little cry with relief! The challenge was full of highs and lows and we kept each other going. We were also determined to continue because we knew we were doing it for a charity we were passionate about.”
The cycle ride was organised by Global Adventure Challenges, with 120 cyclists taking part for a number of different charities.
Catherine, a children’s rheumatology clinical nurse specialist, said: “We arrived safely at the Eiffel Tower having met great new friends and with a huge sense of achievement.
“Bradford Hospitals’ Charity supported us through the whole process and we felt extremely majestic cycling through Paris with our specially made cycle tops displaying the charity logo.
“Many people along the way were interested in our story and we felt extremely proud to say how well supported we were by Bradford Hospitals’ Charity, friends and colleagues. Following a rest, we’re keen to organise another event in the future!”
Hayley Collis, head of fundraising for Bradford Hospitals’ Charity, said: “We are astonished by Jennifer and Catherine’s incredible achievement. The cycle challenge is difficult enough in good conditions, so to tackle it with such extreme weather is truly remarkable. They showed real grit and determination.
“They have proved to be amazing ambassadors for our charity and role models for the young patients they care for. We can’t thank them enough for completing the challenge and raising money for such a useful piece of equipment. I hope we can persuade a few more people to donate and push them over the £4,000 mark.”
You can still donate to Jennifer and Catherine’s Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/catherine-grasby-and-jennifer-gould
To find out more about Bradford Hospitals’ Charity and how you can support your local hospitals by fundraising, donations or volunteering, visit www.bradfordhospitalscharity.org. Alternatively, contact Hayley Collis or Elaine Drake on 01274 274809 or email [email protected]
If you are interested in taking part in the challenge of a lifetime to raise money for your NHS, call the charity office to discuss the variety of opportunities available.
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