Without the care I received from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) staff at Southmead Hospital, my children may have grown up without a father. That’s why I wanted to raise money for the team that cared for me.
In February 2017, I went to my doctor because I was having difficulty breathing. When the doctor couldn’t hear any air getting into my left lung, I was immediately rushed to Southmead Hospital.
After several x-rays and scans, it was revealed that I had a serious infection along with suspected pneumonia and I was placed in an induced coma for four days.
Thanks to the extraordinary care I received from the staff in ICU, I was able to walk out of the hospital. Two weeks later I was home. Reunited with my family.
After chatting to an ICU nurse about the Charity and hearing about how much it supports the hospitals, I knew I had to give back to the team that had saved my life. I want the incredible ICU staff to have all the tools they need to deliver the best care to the patients who come after me.
I’m an outdoor person and I love running, cycling, and walking. With the encouragement of my family and friends, I signed up to the Three Peaks Challenge and for a triathlon. The perfect challenges for me!
While physically I recovered quite quickly, I found it much more challenging to come to terms with being in ICU. I thought being on top of a mountain, or cycling huge distances, would finally put the memory of being on a ventilator behind me.
If you’re thinking about taking on a fundraising challenge, go for it! The whole experience was so positive. I went on the radio to promote my challenge and to raise awareness of the Charity. The team also sent me some nice letters after each of my challenges was completed.
I always look for social media updates from the Charity to see how money raised by people like me is improving the hospitals. Knowing my fundraising has contributed to making the ICU better for staff and patients means a lot to me.
I’ll never forget the kindness of everyone, and the encouragement they gave me to get back to full health. The ICU team made sure that my children will grow up with a father. I can’t thank them enough for that. Without a doubt, I will raise money for the Charity again.
Like Tristan, you can support your hospitals by joining us at one of our fundraising events. Please contact Hannah for more information and to start your fundraising.
