Radiology family steps out to help colleague in need

The radiology extreme ramblers at the start point in Saltburn: Luke, Louise, Angie, Claire, Gill, Jo, Amy, Cal, Raya, John and Rich.

My wife Michelle was diagnosed with breast cancer in July, which was obviously a tremendous shock.  What you don’t anticipate are the financial implications an illness can have as well.  My wife is only entitled to a certain amount of sick pay before dropping to statutory sick pay; with her sick money stopping at the end of September we had a shortfall each month on our income.  This put and immediate strain on us, on top of the worry of the diagnosis and treatment that Michelle was undergoing.

One of my colleagues Amy Trodden asked if she could organise a fund-raising event to help Michelle and I and, after getting past my initial proud stubbornness we agreed as we really needed the help.  Amy set about organising a sponsored walk along a 21-mile stretch of the Cleveland Way between Saltburn-by-the-Sea and Whitby.  Eight of my colleagues from radiology and three family members embarked on the challenge of gaining sponsorship and taking on the walk.  Sponsorship was raised from the whole of the trust radiology family along with colleagues from other departments at the Friarage as well as friends and family outside work.

See the full report on page 12 of the January issue of RAD Magazine.