Resorts World Birmingham raises money for renal transplantation at Variety Night

The team from Resorts World Birmingham hosted a Charity Variety Night for the renal transplantation department at QEHB after a very close friend received treatment.

Murat Bicer, Hospitality Operations Manager at Resorts World Birmingham, was at the forefront of arranging the evening as his close friend Jaffa Shamshuddin received his renal transplantation treatment at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

The night raised money for QEHB Charity and the Frank Bruno Foundation who support disabled children in Essex.

Murat Bicer said: “I had the idea for a charity night as I just wanted to give something back.

“Following a conversation from my friend Jaffa, who I have known for many years, we decided to work together to put on the charity night for the renal transplantation department at QEHB as this is where Jaffa has received treatment.”

The night was full of entertainment, special guests and a three course meal. Entertainment kick-started right from when people walked in with stilt-walkers and flare bartenders walking around, and the night was hosted by magician and radio presenter Ben Hanlin.

Amanda Smith, Renal Recipient Transplant Co-ordinator, said: "The transplant team would like to thank Jaffa and Murat from Resorts World Birmingham for hosting a fabulous evening to raise money the QEHB kidney patients association."

Special guests included Julian Smith from Britain’s Got Talent 2009, Keri Arrindell from X Factor in 2010 and the Uptone Girls who are an acapella group from the University of Birmingham.

Talking about the amount raised for QEHB Charity and the Frank Bruno Foundation, Murat said: “The night was above all expectations. Genting UK Ltd was also able to present an electric wheelchair to a 17-year-old boy.”

With over 330 tickets sold, the night was a huge success and everyone enjoyed all of the entertainment.

Justine Davy, Head of Fundraising at QEHB Charity, said: “The charity night that Murat put on with Resorts World Birmingham was incredible. Thank you so much to Murat and everyone involved for putting on such an incredible night for the renal transplantation department.

“The money raised from the night will be used to fund added extras on the ward that go over and above what the NHS can fund for patients just like Jaffa.”

To find out more about the hospital charity and what we do and how you can get involved, please click here.