Two friends visited the Trust’s breast service this week after raising money for two causes very close to their hearts.
Dan Graham and Kyle Swankie visited the breast unit at the University Hospital of North Tees to hand over funds raised after they both ran 5km, every hour, on the hour, for an amazing 24 hours – totalling 120km (74.5 miles) – all around a running track in Newton Aycliffe.
The money raised was split evenly between two charities – Kyle (pictured, far left) gave his half of the £5,700 to local men’s mental health charity If U Care Share, while Dan gave his to the breast unit where his mother-in-law Margaret Sams (pictured, centre, with Dan) has received treatment.
Dan said: “It was such a difficult challenge, it wasn’t just fatigue from the running but from lack of sleep.
“But we had so much support from friends and family and it was all for two fantastic causes so close to our hearts.”
Thanking them and everyone who supported them, breast care nurse Gail Fleming said: “We directly benefit from any funds donated to us – all of it goes towards improving patient care in the unit. We have opened a quiet room for patients to use recently, paid for by funds raised, among other initiatives.
“We are so appreciative of Dan and Kyle’s efforts and to all of their loved ones for donating so generously.”