Ellie’s Love Keeps on Giving

Ellie’s Love, a local charity set up to support local people with cystic fibrosis, has pledged its support to help other children by fundraising for the Jenny Lind playground at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.

Ellie’s Love was set up in memory of Ellie Loades who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis shortly after birth and sadly died aged 16. Due to the condition Ellie required a number of stays on Buxton ward in NNUH.

Following Ellie’s death, Fakenham based Nick and Elaine decided to set up the charity in her memory and have purchased a whole range of equipment and items which directly benefit cystic fibrosis patients at the NNUH. These items include ‘Buzzy bee’ devices which act as a distraction for younger patients during procedures, and iPads and boogie boards for use in clinic which can be used to help young people express their thoughts as well as provide entertainment. These are things which are not funded by the NHS but make a huge difference to younger patients.

Now the charity has decided to support the Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital Playground appeal which is raising money to transform the outside play area to be more fun and interactive for patients and children visiting relatives.

Emma Dolman, Matron of Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital at NNUH said; “Ellie’s condition meant she spent a lot of time with us at the hospital and we got to know both her, Elaine and Nick very well. The support the charity has given the hospital is incredible and can make such a difference to our patients.”

Nick Loades, Ellie’s dad is getting together a team of cyclists to take part in the NNUH Tour Sportive on 6th September, following the route of the professionals in order to raise money for a piece of play equipment.

Nick said, ‘’the hospital had helped us so much throughout Ellie's life, so it's comforting to be able to give something back.

Nick continued by saying, ‘’ he is hoping to have a team of about 15 taking part and you can support the team by donating online at www.virginmoneygiving.com/Ellieslove or if you would like to join the team please contact Nick on 07889157895 . The team are also looking for a company to sponsor some team cycle shirts if you are interested in helping please contact Nick thank you for your continued support.

Louise Cook, fundraising manager, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Ellie’s Love is supporting our Jenny Lind Playground appeal. This is a local charity which will help local families who are at using hospital services.”

For further information about NNUH and to find out how to support the charity, please call 01603 287107 or visit www.nnuh.nhs.uk.

To donate to the Jenny Lind Play Ground Appeal please go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/charity-web/charity/displayCharityCampaignPage.action?charityCampaignUrl=jennylind

To sign up to the NNUH Sportive Bike ride please visit http://www.nnuhtoursportive.co.uk/