You're Amazing (Winter/Spring 2016) (Winter/Spring 2016) | Page 10

Remembering Zainab Aamer Safdar is a pharmacist at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and he’s fundraising in memory of his sister-in-law Zainab Beg, who received treatment at St Thomas’ for lupus. Lupus involves the immune system producing too many antibodies, which usually fight disease. These then attack healthy tissue, leading to symptoms such as fatigue or muscle pain. ‘I would like to honour Zainab’s life by raising funds for lupus, so that other patients can have a better quality of life, and healthcare professionals can have a better understanding of the condition.’ Aamer is running the London Marathon in April. You can sponsor him at www.justgiving.com/Aamer-Safdar Having a ball In May 2015, Laura-Jo Dredge’s brother Simon was knocked unconscious in a power boat accident in Southampton Solent. Simon’s family were at first told he might not survive, but a specialist intensive care team from St Thomas’ offered the family hope. They were able to treat him by removing blood from his body, artificially pumping out the carbon dioxide and replacing the oxygen. This allowed Simon’s lungs to recover and after spending 21 days at St Thomas’, he was transferred home and is now doing well. Laura says, ‘Without that team, we would not be lucky enough to have Simon with us today. For that reason, I decided to organise a charity dinner.’ Laura-Jo’s event raised an incredible £20,000, for which we are so very grateful. Got a fundraising idea? www.supportgstt.org.uk/fun Nothing can prepare you for a situation like we were in, but each member of staff who looked after Simon helped us every day with their dedication to their jobs. 10 Join our team! Here are our 2016 events – something for everyone! Silverstone Half Marathon Skydive Sunday 13 March A half marathon at the historic Silverstone motor racing circuit. Sunday 19 July Fancy freefalling through the clouds at speeds of around 120mph? Brighton Marathon RideLondon Sunday 17 April The flat course makes this race perfect for novice runners. Sunday 31 July Take to two wheels and cycle the Olympic route. London Marathon Sunday 24 April Lucky enough to have bagged your own place in the world’s greatest race? Join our team of runners and we’ll provide you with five-star treatment from start to finish. St Thomas’ abseil Friday 13 May Calling all thrill-seekers! Test your mettle this spring and take part in our brand new sponsored abseil overlooking some of London’s most iconic landmarks. Step over the edge to raise money for Guy’s, St Thomas’ or Evelina London. London 10,000 Monday 30 May This race caters to a range of levels and takes you through the heart of London. Find out more at supportgstt.org.uk/events Phil and Amy Newby’s son Jacob was diagnosed as a baby with a rare inherited disease. Thanks to Evelina London’s quick intervention and continued support, seven-year-old Jacob is in great health and cheered on his dad who abseiled to raise more than £1,200. ‘The staff go over and beyond what is expected,’ says Amy. ‘We are so very grateful that we wanted to give a little something back. They truly are our heroes and we can’t thank them enough for what they do.’ 11