A local volunteer-run hospital radio station has received a generous donation of more than £200 pounds from the granddaughter of the station’s longest serving volunteer.
Hollie Cairnes, granddaughter of Radio Stitch volunteer Elliot Kennedy who has volunteered at the station for more than 40 years, laced up her running shoes and completed a gruelling 50km challenge, running one kilometre for every year the hospital radio station has been broadcasting.
Radio Stitch broadcasts from University Hospital of North Tees and can also be enjoyed by patients, visitors and staff at The James Cook University Hospital, University Hospital of Hartlepool and the Friarage Hospital.
50-kilometre run
Care worker Hollie, 30, from Middlesbrough, completed the challenging 50-kilometre (31 mile) run in August raising £212 along the way.
Hollie said: “Some of my happiest childhood memories are of visiting Radio Stitch with my grandad.
“He’s volunteered at the station for more than 40 years and I can still remember him taking me and my sister through the hospital and into the studio. Seeing how much it means to him, and the pride he takes in being part of the team, has always stayed with me.
“That’s why I’ve decided to take on a personal challenge and run 50km. it wasn’t an organised big event with crowds. I just wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone while raising money for a cause that means so much to my family.
“Hospital stays can often be difficult and patients can feel lonely and uncertain. Radio Stitch helps bring entertainment, companionship and a little positivity to people when they need it most.
“This incredible radio station has played a huge part in my grandad’s life. I love to support it so it can continue making a difference to others for years to come.”
Determined
Elliot Kennedy said: “When Hollie told me she was going to run 50km to raise money for Radio Stitch, I knew she’d do it. Determined doesn’t begin to describe her.
“I’m incredibly proud of what she’s achieved. Running more than a marathon is amazing but doing it to support a charity that means so much to me makes it even more special.
“Every penny she has raised will help us continue bringing music, entertainment and a bit of cheer to patients during their time in hospital.”
Hollie is now in training for another epic run – this time she has her sights set on a 100km challenge.