A team of Nurses, Health Care Assistants and an Activity Co-ordinator from Ward 9 at Macclesfield District General Hospital will be taking on the gruelling challenge of climbing Cheshire Three Peaks this weekend.

The key workers will take on the big hikes on Saturday 23rd September, to raise money in support of East Cheshire NHS Charity.

Ward 9 has recently undergone a refurbishment to create a more dementia friendly environment, to enhance patient wellbeing, to reduce the distress and anxiety potentially caused by a stay in hospital and promote independence.

As part of ongoing improvements to the Ward, they have introduced a new role of Activities Co-ordinator, to support activities on the Ward. The team decided to fundraise to help raise funds to buy additional activities and equipment that patients with dementia can use and enjoy for years to come.

They will take on a trio of Macclesfield beauty spots. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

Stephanie Ragdale, Admiral Nurse on Ward 9 said, "I am taking part because I am passionate about making a hospital stay as pleasant as possible for someone living with dementia and the money will enable us to do that by purchasing items that can provide people with a sense of wellbeing."

The challenge involves a circuit of three Cheshire Peaks – Tegg's nose (370m), Shining Tor (559m), and Shutlingsloe (506m); taking in Macclesfield Forest, Lamaload Reservoir and the Cat and Fiddle distillery.

It will be a tough challenge for the team, with rough and stony terrain and steep ascents and descents.

The team said, "It is truly wonderful to hear the laughter from the patients in what can be a frightening and intimidating environment. The benefits of remaining independent and staying active whilst learning something new are enormous. I am completing this walk to raise some much-needed funds to enable our activities to continue."

Macclesfield Hospital of Victoria Road. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

They have provisionally set a fundraising goal of £1000, with £55 raised so far ahead of this weekend's challenge.

Lily Preston, Fundraising and Events Manager at East Cheshire NHS Charity said, "It's great to see the team from Ward 9 taking part in the Cheshire Three Peaks and supporting their local NHS Charity. Good luck to everyone taking part!"

East Cheshire NHS Charity is a local charity that works hand in hand with our incredible healthcare services to help them go above and beyond for patients, families and staff. They go above standard Government funding and firmly believe that by working together, we can make our local NHS that extra special.

To donate, please click on THIS LINK to go to the Ward 9 JustGiving page.

Click the red link above to donate to the East Cheshire NHS Charity fundraiser. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

If you'd like to get involved in fundraising for East Cheshire NHS Charity, please contact [email protected].

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