Cyclist Comfortably Raises Enough Money for Chairs

Amateur cyclist John Hillier may not be sitting very comfortably at the moment but patients on the Neurosurgery ward at University Hospital soon will be.  

John Hillier, 60, of South Wales, recently cycled from John O'Groats to Lands End to raise money for the Neurosurgery ward after his daughter-in-law was treated there.  

Phee Hillier, 28, who lives in South Shropshire, had surgery at University Hospital and is delighted John raised over 2,700 pounds for two electronically operated chairs that will help patients recovering from Neurosurgery.  

John Hillier said:  

"We had aimed to complete the journey in 19 days but in the end it only took two weeks, what started off as an adventure turned into a time challenge after a couple of days. Me and my wife were on holiday when we heard Phee needed medical treatment back in May 2008, but seeing her marrying our son seven months later gave me all the incentive I needed to raise money for the hospital that helped her. I didn't have any problems with my bike, just some of my limbs, I was a bit sore to say the least. I'd just like to thank all the staff at University Hospital and the Consultant Neurosurgeon Mr Price, who treated Phee."  

Phee Hillier, said:  

"The staff were absolutely great, they made my stay at University Hospital all the more bearable during what was a very difficult time. The speed in which I was treated was excellent and although it was a long recovery it did give me time to plan my wedding. What John has done is fantastic, he is a real star and I'm just really pleased that future patients will be able to benefit from his efforts."

Sister Sarah Lindsay-Carter, of the Neurosurgery ward, said:  

"This is fantastic for the Neurosurgery Ward and we are very grateful to both Phee and John Hillier. The money is going to be spent on two electronically operated chairs that will help neurological patients sit in the correct position. This type of chair is very supportive for them and it will enable them to start their rehabilitation."  

Anyone who wishes to raise money for University Hospital can contact Charitable Fund manager Steve Rushton on 01782 554444.  

Picture: Sister Sarah Lindsay-Carter, John Hillier & Phee Hillier  

For further information or assistance please contact Sue Pantin, Communications Manager, on 01782 555400 or Andrew Ashcroft, Communications Manager, on 01782 555061.