Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh (WWL) Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is celebrating the efforts of colleague Tony Rigby, who took part in a charity abseil to raise vital funds for the Trust's official charity, Three Wishes.
Tony, Interim Head of Capital Projects, stepped over the edge to take part in the 170ft abseil at Trafford Palazzo to help push the charity’s mission forward, securing much-needed funds that stay right here in the community to elevate patient care.
"Looking down from that ledge was absolutely terrifying, but I knew every single step was helping someone in our community," said Tony.
"Working here, I see firsthand how hard our teams work and how much of a difference the little things make to a patient's comfort. It means the world to me to be able to give back to a charity that looks after our own people and our patients when they need it most."
Tony raised £1,125 for the charity and combined with colleague Brandon Mann’s fundraising efforts (but who couldn’t make it on the day), it brought the total to £1,400.
Emily Mundon, Three Wishes Charity Manager said: "We are incredibly proud of Tony for taking on such a staggering, adrenaline-fuelled challenge. It takes a lot of bravery to step off a ledge for charity, and the money Tony has raised will directly impact the lives of our patients and hard-working staff. He is a true healthcare hero.”
While the NHS covers core medical treatments, the Three Wishes Charity goes above and beyond to fund the elements that transform a hospital stay. Every penny raised helps support projects across 12 divisional funds, including:
- Advanced Medical Equipment: Purchasing cutting-edge machinery, such as anti-gravity treadmills for rehabilitation and specialised ward monitors.
- Patient Environment and Comfort: Upgrading hospital spaces - like the recent campaign to refurbish the Pearl Bereavement Suite for grieving families - and providing patient comforts like specialised seating, fans, and entertainment.
- Staff Wellbeing: Investing in the Health Care Heroes Fund to provide mental and physical health initiatives, training, and rest facilities for dedicated NHS staff.
- Specialist Care Funds: Targeted support for the Cancer Care Fund, Mind and Memory (Dementia) Fund, and the Children and Babies Fund.
The fundraising momentum doesn't stop with Tony's descent. Next up is the Wigan 10K Run and Three Wishes is officially calling on the Wigan community, local businesses, and fitness enthusiasts to dust off their running shoes for this next major event.
Whether you are a seasoned marathoner or a first-time jogger looking to walk the route, taking part will directly fund the next generation of patient comfort and hospital equipment at WWL.
To take part, sign up for the Wigan 10K directly and select 'Three Wishes' as your chosen charity. The team will provide you with fundraising support and a charity running top.
Local businesses looking to fulfil corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals can sponsor staff entry fees or pledge a matching donation.
Not a runner? The charity is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join the cheering stations, hand out water, and celebrate the runners at the finish line.
To secure your place, request a fundraising pack, or learn more about how you can support Three Wishes, please email the team at threewishescharity@wwl.nhs.uk