Family and friends run for beloved grandmother

Neave Fowkes, her friend Ella Hughes and Ella's parents Jim and Debbie are running the SimplyHealth Great Birmingham Run half marathon in memory of Neave’s grandmother, Mary Curtis, who passed away on Ward 19 in Heartlands Hospital earlier this year.

Neave and her friends decided to raise money for Ward 19 at Heartlands Hospital so the staff there can continue providing care like they gave to her nan before she passed away in March and thought running the half marathon was a great way to do this.

Neave said: “The care and support of Ward 19 was so wonderful. My nan’s illness was the worst thing that happened to our family but the amazing care and support helped us so much.

“We are all very nervous for the half marathon as it’s our first time doing something like this!”

This is the first half marathon Neave has ever done, she has completed other small fun runs but never anything this big!

Sian Averill, Fundraising Manager for Heartlands Hospital Charity, said: “It is so nice to hear that Neave’s nan received such wonderful care whilst she was on Ward 19 at Heartlands Hospital. We are so grateful that she has chosen to fundraise for them to make sure the ward can continue giving the care they are.

“The money Neave raises will go towards ‘added extras’ for the ward which will keep up the excellent standard of care they provide. I hope Neave and her friends enjoy the half marathon and good luck to them!”

They have so far raised £487 of their £500 target but are hoping to exceed their target and raise as much as they can for the ward! To help Neave and her friends on their journey, you can read her story and donate to her page here.

If you would like to find out more about Ward 19 at Heartlands Hospital, please click here.