Paulina, our Charity Finance Assistant, dared the challenge of the Derriford Abseil to raise money for Birch Ward.  

 

 

"September last year, my husband was diagnosed with Lymphoma. He started chemotherapy in the October. I was with him for most of his 21 chemo days; watching him go through it and not being able to do much was very tough.

"The staff working on the ward were lovely, so friendly, positive, cheerful and hard working! I'm fundraising to say thank you to the staff for helping my husband fight cancer."

Paulina has raised over £1,100 from family and friends by saying "Yes!" to the challenge. This inspiring amount will make such a difference to Birch Ward, where every day, the team supports patients through chemotherapy and blood transfusions.

We asked Paulina if she had any tips for fundraisers looking to raise sponsorship. She told us, "I never expected to raise so much money, and I'm so grateful to everyone who has donated. This cause is very close to my heart, and I think that has helped in raising this amount. I also messaged and spoke to people I know directly about the abseil and why I'm doing it."

Paulina bravely rappelled down the side of Derriford Hospital on Sunday 15th of September, despite never having tried an adrenaline-pumping activity like this before.

"I was so nervous about stepping over the edge and took my time to slowly reach the ground, but I'm so happy I accomplished it!"