Family see refurb work done at hospital
A Staffordshire family have returned to a hospital to see the work done with the money they raised for its birthing unit.
Stafford Hospital birthing unit's bereavement room was refurbished using £2,326 raised by Peter Sidgwick of Hednesford on a five-day, sponsored 219-mile cycle ride.
The 61-year-old decided to do the fundraiser to thank the hospital for the care his daughter and son-in-law, Hannah and Jon Seymour received when their daughter, Evelyn Hannah was stillborn.
Mr Sidgwick said: "My daughter and her husband spent several days at the hospital in December 2007 after the loss of their daughter.
"The staff was superb and very sensitive, the quality of care was fantastic and the midwifery department was second to none.
"I took the decision to thank the hospital and arranged a sponsored bike ride around Kent, Surrey and Sussex which took five days.
"I had a lot of support from friends and family and raised over £2,000 for the hospital."
Mr Sidgwick and his family returned to the unit for the first time since its refurbishment and were impressed with the new decoration to make it more comforting for patients. He added: "We were delighted with what has been done.
"The room looks really special with the appearance of a nice hotel room and the finishing is of super quality."
Birthing unit manager Janet Fenton said: "Mr Sidgwick's generous donation has enabled us to completely refurbish the bereavement room making a more homely and comfortable environment to meet the needs of families during difficult times. We are very grateful for the money and it will help families affected by stillbirths to be given support in as comfortable surroundings as possible."
