The Beat Goes On… Celebrating 30 Years of the South Cleveland Heart Fund: A Night to Remember at Gisborough Hall
The 30th Anniversary Charity Ball Raises Spirits and Funds for Lifesaving Cardiac Care
Heartfelt Celebration
From the moment guests stepped through the doors of Gisborough Hall, they were greeted with a sparkling drink, music, beautiful lighting and warm welcome. People from all walks of life, (including those who deliver and those who have benefitted from the excellent care of Cardiothoracic services), gathered to mark a cause that has touched countless families across the region The beautifully decorated Madoc Suite welcomed all as they sat to enjoy a fabulous 3 course dinner and music from the amazing band, Hip Operation. People had very generously donated some fabulous prizes for both the raffle and the auction.
Remembering the Past, Embracing the Future
The 30th Anniversary Ball was as much a celebration of the charity’s remarkable history as it was a call to action for the future. Over the past three decades, the South Cleveland Heart Fund has been steadfast in its mission to support the James Cook University Hospital’s Cardiothoracic services, funding pioneering equipment, research, and patient care initiatives. The Ball provided an opportunity to celebrate the fact with the £3.5 million+ monies raised have made a life-changing difference in the lives of cardiac patients.
A video played throughout the evening, reminding all of previous fundraising activities and purchases of medical equipment to help keep the Unit at the leading edge of clinical care.
Dr Adrian Davies, Chairman of the South Cleveland Heart Fund, set up the heart services and the unit as we know it today. Committed to advancing cardiac care in the region, he established the Charity some 30 years ago (and was raising funds prior to that), in order to achieve this. Despite having retired, he remains committed to this and through ongoing advocacy and vision, Dr Davies has guided the charity in supporting pioneering equipment, research, and patient care, making a significant difference to countless lives over three decades. He gave an informative yet humorous speech, recounting past achievements but also looking forward. He noted that the charity has raised over £3.5 Million since setting up in 1994. A recent successful appeal to help Our Hospitals Charity raise £750,000 for the provision of a long-awaited Cardiothoracic Research Unit, will have great impact not only on the already excellent patient care locally, but also nationally and world-wide. This opened in November 2023.
The money the charity raises helps keep our Unit at the leading edge of advances by purchasing things such as:
Equipment: The SCHF funds vital medical equipment for the cardiothoracic unit.
Pump-Priming New Procedures: The SCHF supports the introduction of advanced procedures by the consultants and staff, ensuring that these innovations can be adopted by the National Health Service.
Staff Training: The charity contributes to ongoing training for healthcare professionals.
Research: The SCHF supports research initiatives that enhance heart patient care
Guests were reminded that every ticket purchased, every raffle entered, and every pound donated plays a crucial role in shaping the future of heart health in the region.
He thanked all for their ongoing support – reminding them to ‘spread the word’ as, despite being in existence all these years, some people have not heard of the South Cleveland Heart Fund!
Community Spirit and Generosity
The atmosphere was one of friendship and laughter, with guests enjoying a delightful meal, lively entertainment, and fundraising activities. The charity raffle, featuring prizes generously donated by local businesses and individuals, was a particular highlight, and the Charity is grateful to all those who generously donated and bought tickets/ bid for items.
Beautiful photographs were taken against the rose heart backdrop – for lasting memories.
Due to the success of the evening, and the demand from those unable to attend, we hope to hold another Ball soon. Please see our website www,schf.org.uk
Making a Lasting Impact
Raising over £5,000 in a single night is a testament to the continued generosity of the local community. These funds will directly support the purchase of cutting-edge cardiac equipment, enhance patient care, and contribute to research that brings hope to families facing the challenges of heart disease. The impact of the evening will be felt not just today, but for years to come, as the South Cleveland Heart Fund continues its vital work.
Thank You for 30 Years of Support
The South Cleveland Heart Fund extends its deepest thanks to everyone who attended, donated, and supported the 30th Anniversary Charity Ball. Your generosity is the heartbeat of our mission, and together, we are making a difference. As we look to the next 30 years, we invite you to continue standing with us, ensuring that the legacy of hope, care, and innovation remains strong for future generations. The Beat Goes On…
If you would like to learn more about the South Cleveland Heart Fund, get involved, or make a donation, please visit our website www.schf.org.uk and be a part of our ongoing journey towards healthier hearts for all