Big-hearted response to scanner appeal! (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Big-hearted response to scanner appeal!

4:11pm Thursday 9th July 2009 in

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Support is pouring in for the Beating Hearts in Bradford Appeal from big-hearted, generous people across the district.

The British Heart Foundation Appeal, which is being backed by the Telegraph & Argus, is aiming to raise £105,000 for a life-saving heart scanner for Bradford Royal Infirmary.

The 3D echocardiograph machine will enable heart patients to have a specialised test which looks at the function and structure of the heart and will enable doctors to make more informed and speedier diagnoses.

Cheques, including one individual donation of £1,000, have been pouring in to the appeal office, as well as offers of fundraising help, including a local newsagent who is going to sell BHF badges and encourage customers to fill a collection box for the appeal.

Sue Green, volunteer and fundraising manager for the British Heart Foundation in West Yorkshire and manager of the Beating Hearts in Bradford Appeal, said: “This is really good news. We’ve had lots of £10 and £20 donations and it all adds up.

“The appeal total is now around £32,500 and is going up all the time. So far we have had people run, walk and swim for us, bake cakes and dress down at work, or people have just donated.

“Others who have lost a loved one have given us money in lieu of flowers. But everyone is getting behind the appeal because it is a local appeal for Bradford and it will be of direct benefit to Bradford heart patients.”

If you are not sure how to get involved Sue has a raft of ideas suitable for individuals, businesses, schools, voluntary groups and associations.

“People can do as much or as little as they want,” said Sue. “You could place a collection can on your desk or abandon your car for a day and get on your bike for a sponsored ride.

“You could organise a slimming competition or a ‘get the boss back’ event where you give your boss a forfeit to carry out. Sponsored silences or sponsored walks are easy to organise, or maybe pupils could sponsor a teacher to wear an outrageous outfit on the last day of term.

“You could turn your hobby into a fundraising venture, such as baking. Whatever your passion turn it into a fundraising event. If you are a member of a group or association then get them involved and hold a ball or charity dinner, a concert or a golf day.

“You can often raise £200 just by holding a coffee morning and tombola.”

Anyone who wants to send a cheque to the appeal should make it payable to British Heart Foundation and write “Beating Hearts in Bradford Appeal” on the reverse.

e-mail: claire.lomax @telegraphandargus.co.uk

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