Two of our generous Charity supporters joined us at HRI this morning to raise the first flag of 2024, as we celebrate Amazing in Action Week and the launch of our Charity’s new brand - and a few clouds weren't going to spoil the occasion. 

In November 2019, Colin Hanson suffered a serious stroke. The Stroke Unit team at Calderdale Royal Hospital saved his life and set him on his road to recovery. Colin and his wife, Fay, vowed that their first fundraising activity would be in recognition of all the fantastic work that the stroke team do.

In 2023, the family held a Karate Fitness Challenge and raised £6,759 for the Stroke Unit. Their fundraising efforts have made a positive impact to both our colleagues and patients who attend the unit at CRH.

It seemed fitting then to ask Colin along to raise the flag for our inaugural Amazing in Action Week.

Charity Manager, Emma Kovaleski, said: "We’re over the moon to be relaunching Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Charity as we embark on an amazing and very bright future.

“Our new look is like a burst of sunshine, reflecting how our charity beams with positivity, spreading warmth in our hospitals, communities, and across all the work we are involved in.

“However, none of this would be possible without our amazing donors, supporters, volunteers and funders. From fundraising events, donations in memory of loved ones, legacies, gifts in kind and the gift of time – our donors are our most amazing gift.

“And it is it is only by working together, as a community, with people like Colin, we can make amazing things happen at CHFT, over and above the everyday.”

There’s still time for colleagues to get involved in Amazing in Action Week. Take a look at the ideas and downloadable resources and do something amazing.

What’s happening for the rest of the week?

• Tuesday: Join us between 09:00 and 17:00 as we hold a static bike race in the main entrances of both hospitals. Feel free to pop along and take part or come along to cheer on your colleagues. Email emma-leigh.quinn@cht.nhs.uk  for more information
• Wednesday: Our Wellbeing Garden celebration event takes place alongside the official opening for our new A&E at HRI. Everyone is welcome to use the space, fully funded by our Charity, after 16:00
• Thursday: The Charity Team will be running a business networking event at HRI in the Learning Centre. Feel free to pop along between 09:30 and 10:30
• Friday: Watch out for the Charity Team in their trademark orange in our hospitals and community sites
• Saturday: It’s our second Cricket tournament at Sowerby Bridge, and the team will also be at The Halifax Gala for a bed push and to raise awareness of our Charity. Say hello if you’re there – they’d love to see you.