Published on: 18 January 2019
Gemma, a proud Sunderland local and employee at Sunderland Royal Hospital, has raised an amazing £795 to support patients of Sunderland Royal Chest Clinic.
Gemma, along with friends and family, braved the Boxing Day Dip at Seaburn to raise the support. Although her support will make a difference for patients with all kinds of conditions, she is particularly passionate about helping those with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis.
Gemma says: "The Chest Clinic provides help and support to Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis patients; which I have seen first hand.
IPF is a chronic, fatal disease which is characterised by a decline in lung function. IPF has no cure, but by raising funds and awareness we can support those close to us who may need that help.
If it improves their quality of life for a short time, then we have succeeded!"
Gemma was able to meet some of the Chest Clinic team in January, including Sister Sharon Stothard who manages the clinic.
"We are really amazed at Gemma's generosity, and even slight craziness for running into the freezing cold North Sea! We appreciate all those who donate or fundraise to support our patients. We hope to use the money Gemma has raised for some portable nebulisers. Although these might not sound particularly exciting, it actually means we can lend equipment out to patients who can then go away on holiday with the right training."
City Hospitals Sunderland Charity thank Gemma, her family, friends and colleauges for all they've done to support the Chest Clinic.
Gemma (second left back) with her family at the Boxing Day Dip.
