Local Dad is a Knock Out for Charity

Local fire fighter Alan Nicholls took on the Norfolk Constabulary in a boxing challenge to raise money for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH).

Alan from Norwich wanted to raise money for NICU to thank the unit for the care his baby son, Alfie received when he was born. Alfie was born at 24 weeks and weighed 722g, he is now a very healthy 9lb 9oz baby.
Alan said, “The unit was amazing and the care and attention our little boy received was just brilliant. Without exception I've never met such a dedicated team of nurses.

“We wanted to give something back to the unit and this would not have been possible had Paul Larter, from Suffolk Police (but entered as part of the Norfolk team), not been prepared to take part in our annual boxing event. As a result we have raised £1,250 from the boxing event for NICU which will hopefully will benefit other parents going through the same journey that myself and Sarah went through with Alfie”.

PC Larter said, “It was a great night and although I was well beaten by Al Nicholls, I was very happy to help out and to be involved in a great event which raised a lot of money for some very good causes.”

Ryon Martin, a colleague of Alan’s, organised the annual Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service Vs. Norfolk Constabulary Charity Boxing Match in June this year 2013 which raised nearly £10, 000 for local charities. The event was made possible by support given from Geezers Palace, MBS promotional gifts and Nigel Farrow MOT Services.

Jill Wakley, NICU Matron at the NNUH, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Alan and his colleagues from the fire and police services supported our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. I have discussed with Alan some potential uses for the money raised, we always have a wish list of items that will make the hospital experience better for our babies and their families, all money raised goes directly towards items used on the unit. It was lovely to catch up with Sarah, Alan and of course Alfie who surprised us all with how big he is now.”

Louise Cook, Fundraising Manager for the NNUH said “We are so grateful that people support the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Charitable Fund. Whilst the NHS provides the necessities, the charity funds projects that make the hospital experience a better one for our patients, visitors and staff. We are always looking for people to get involved in fundraising like Alan so please contact us if you would like to help.”

To see Alan’s boxing match please go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhXvp1hm_LQ and for further information about NNUH and to find out how to support the charity, please call 01603 287107 or visit www.nnuh.nhs.uk.

PHOTO CAPTION
Dad Alan Nicholls, Mum Sarah Chow and baby Alfie with Dr Ingrid Wilkinson