Heatwave cancer patients raise funds for air-con

Two cancer patients who attended Lincoln County Hospital for chemotherapy treatment during extreme summer heat have raised more than £10,000 to pay for air conditioning to help other patients.

Rose Marshall, from Belchford, near Horncastle, attended the Ingham Suite for treatment in the summer of 2024, followed a year later by Liam Bradley, from South Hykeham, near Lincoln.

Both said they found the heat unbearable and pledged to raise funds for the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity. In total, the pair raised £10,435.

The unit's deputy sister Liz Timms praised their efforts and said the cooling system would dramatically improve comfort for patients.

Bradley, who underwent six months of treatment during what was to be one of the hottest summers on record, said: "I couldn't believe the heat.

"We were all struggling - nurses and patients alike. It was so uncomfortable to sit in the chairs and have chemo in these conditions."

Meanwhile, Marshall said: "The nurses were incredible, continuing to care for patients with calm professionalism despite the stifling heat."

Bradley, an area retail manager, and Marshall, an executive leader, met for the first time when they visited the ward to present their respective donations.

They have since become good friends and are planning a joint fundraising event to provide further support for cancer patients in the region.

Ben Petts, from the hospital charity, added: "Rose and Liam have used their experiences of being patients to support an addition that will benefit many more patients in the future.

"To be able to combine their fundraising achievements for the same goal is wonderful and we give our absolute thanks."

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