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Successful Stroke Christmas Raffle Thanks To Island Businesses

The stroke unit at St Mary’s Hospital were delighted to receive a generous cheque after a successful Christmas raffle.

The team has expressed its gratitude to Steve Sharpe and his daughter Leanne, who secured many prizes from Island businesses.

The raffle raised an impressive £2,556.

When Val, Steve's wife, suffered a serious stroke in June 2023, her ongoing recovery was provided by the stroke unit.

Val said:

“As part of my recovery I spent time in the day room, doing arts and crafts, like painting.

"After learning that the staff hold a Christmas raffle, I knew my husband, Steve, would know of people who would be willing to donate.

"We thought it would be nice to raise some money for the ward so if patients cannot get out of bed, trolleys could be brought into them, and they could paint in their beds."

Steve added:

"Val is doing fantastically well and getting better and better.

"Donating this cheque is a way to say thank you to the staff and it will go towards helping others who also need the unit.

“We cannot thank (local businesses) and those who helped sell the tickets enough for making this such a success.”

Debbie Wiggins, Ward Sister, concluded:

“The overall amount raised is phenomenal and will be used to purchase a new Sara Stedy hoist for the stroke unit.

"This is a piece of manual handling equipment which is fantastic at helping patients regain some independence.

"Any remaining funds will be used to purchase resources for our patient activity coordinator Kerry."

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