Thank you to CHAT (Community Health Around Torpoint) and the Rame peninsula branch of the Lion’s Club for their continuing support of Plymouth Hospitals Charity. 

When Lyn Murray (the chairperson of CHAT) was a patient on Moorgate Ward at Derriford Hospital she noticed that many patients weren’t getting up and about as much as they’d like. It turned out that the ward only had one ‘Sara Stedy’ which is a device to help patients stand from a seated position. The piece of equipment was in constant use helping people to get to the loo and, generally, helping them to be more active.  

Following her recovery, Lyn decided to set about raising funds with the help of other CHAT members to buy another Sara Stedy for the ward. Her husband Stephen, President of the Torpoint/Rame Peninsula Lion’s Club also joined the campaign, and they soon exceeded their target. 

Not only did they manage to buy another Sara Stedy for the ward but also bought some digital radios, Kindles and a selection of puzzles to help patients on their recovery journey. 

Kate Rayner, Ward Manager said: “We’re thrilled. Lyn saw a need for our patients and decided to do something about it. Having another Sara Stedy makes everyone’s lives easier and the new radios and Kindles will be in constant use too. It’s just fantastic.” 

Corinne Smith, Charity Development Manager (pictured, far left) said: “Lyn described how hard she saw the nurses working and just how many patients needed their help to mobilise. To be able to purchase this piece of equipment and all the other items Lyn’s fundraising has supported is wonderful. As the charity for University Hospitals Plymouth we can do more for patients and staff because of the amazing people like Lyn and her husband. Every donation made can transform someone’s experience in the future. Thank you to Lyn and CHAT and the wonderful people of the Rame peninsula!”  

Moorgate Ward has now become Shipley Ward but all the new charity funded equipment has moved to its new home on Level 11.