Fundraising pair to take on Cardiff Half for cancer ward
Pictured above: Chloe Lewis and Simon Watson-Smith.
Chloe and Simon are running Wales’ largest mass participation and multi-charity fundraising event to raise funds for Meruig Ward at Bronglais Hospital, where Chloe works.
Chloe said: “We are running this event for Meurig Ward at Bronglais Hospital which is an oncology ward. Working within this ward for four years has been an honour and eye opening as to how many oncology emergencies there are.
“Meurig Ward has a close place in our hearts for myself and my family as previous family members have been cared for so wonderfully during their most vulnerable times.
“I would like to challenge myself to complete this half marathon to support those who receive devastating and life-changing news. The ward supports end-of-life care, sepsis emergencies, palliative patients and supports families during these challenging times.
“My goal is to be able to help fund supportive equipment for young children who have lost a loved one. These can include books relating to grief, teddies, memory trees, and other activities which will allow them to express their feelings within the ward or at home whilst dealing with grief.”
Simon said: “The ward helped me and my family a lot when my mother, Sandra, had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer which later metastasised. The ward staff were very helpful in making her feel comfortable and were very kind to us all in that moment. Later on in life, my father, Ian, also received the news that he had been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancer. The ward once again worked with us in giving him treatment around the clock.
“I am running in memory of my parents and for the fantastic work the staff on Meurig Ward do every day not only for people like my parents but for every single person that steps foot on the ward.”
Nicola Llewellyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “We’d like to say a massive thank you to Chloe and Simon for taking on the Cardiff Half for such a worthy cause.
“The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”
You can support Chloe and Simon’s fundraiser here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/chloe-simon-1719934644372