Skip to main content

Gabby’s Football Fundraiser

Written by Royal Orthopaedic Charity on . Posted in Fundraising. No Comments on Gabby’s Football Fundraiser

Gabby’s Football Fundraiser

Date: 4th August 2026

Earlier this year, Gabby organised a community football fundraiser, bringing together family, friends and local supporters to raise funds for The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, a place close to their hearts. The event was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a community comes together with heart, humour and a shared purpose, raising just under £1,500 including Gift Aid for The Royal Orthopaedic Charity (ROC).

The fundraiser was organised in honour of Gabby and Luke’s dad, Laurence. He has lived with Rheumatoid Arthritis for as long as they can remember, a tough, degenerative condition that brings daily pain, limited mobility, and countless challenges.

Over the past couple of years, his health has worsened significantly. He has faced two knee replacements, a hip replacement, and numerous other painful complications, with more treatment still ahead. Despite this, his trademark positivity hasn’t wavered.

“Through every hospital stay, appointment, and physiotherapy session, The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital worked to make a incredibly difficult journey as comfortable as possible, which is exactly why the charity was chosen” says Gabby

Why Football?

The choice of football was no accident. Laurence played for years at different levels and coached countless teams. Football has always been a huge part of his life, and in recent years it’s become something special he’s shared with Gabby and Luke too.

Towards the end of summer, just before his mobility declined further, he was even coaching Gabby herself — a moment that’s become a cherished memory for the family. Sharing the same love of the game has brought light during some very difficult periods.

A Match Full of Spirit

And so, players from across the local community joined Gabby this weekend, supported loudly by friends, regulars, and familiar face. Among them were bar and security staff from Attic Brewery Stirchley.

As Attic Brew Co Tap in Stirchley shared on Instagram:

“Today a few of our amazing bar staff – plus members of security took to the footie pitch to raise much needed funds for ROC. This fantastic charity has really supported the family of Gabby, who you may recognise from pouring you that pint of Intuition on a Saturday night. A spirited game ended in a 6–6 draw with some dubious penalty taking.”

The game delivered everything you could want from a charity match: determination, laughter, competitive edge, and more than a few questionable penalties. Ending in a 6–6 draw, it kept everyone entertained.

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who played, donated, shared the fundraiser, volunteered their time, or simply came along to show support. Events like this don’t happen without generosity, effort, and a strong community spirit — and this weekend proved we have that in abundance.

Gabby’s football fundraiser is a reminder that sometimes the biggest impact comes from local pitches, familiar faces, and people choosing to look after one another.

Here’s to community, resilience, and doing good — even with dodgy penalties.

If you would like to host a fundraiser for ROC in your community, simply email roc@nhs.net, we’d love to hear from you.


Continue reading

Creating a Space to Recharge: New Staff Room Seating on Ward 3

Written by Royal Orthopaedic Charity on . Posted in How your support helps. No Comments on Creating a Space to Recharge: New Staff Room Seating on Ward 3

Creating a Space to Recharge: New Staff Room Seating on Ward 3

Date: 23rd July 2026

ROC is delighted to share a recent improvement on Ward 3 (the cancer ward at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital), where new modular seating has been installed in the staff room—helping to create a more comfortable and restorative environment for hospital staff.

This initiative was raised through the Trust’s Voice Into Action (VITA) process, which enables staff to share ideas and highlight opportunities for quick, meaningful improvements across the hospital. One such suggestion focused on the need to enhance the Ward 3 staff room to better support staff wellbeing and morale.

The previous chairs in the Ward 3 staff room had been repurposed from another area of the hospital many years ago. Over time, they had become worn and uncomfortable, having lost their padding and support. Staff described them as “no longer fit for purpose”, with some even noting they resembled commodes rather than suitable seating for rest breaks.

Given Ward 3 is predominately a ward looking after bone cancer patients, staff working regularly have difficult and emotional conversations with patients and their families. For many patients, bone cancer and its treatment involves some of the most challenging and persistent pain they will face, both during treatment and in recovery. Because of the intensity of this environment, having access to a calm and comfortable space to take breaks is especially important for supporting staff wellbeing.

Through the VITA process, staff proposed the introduction of wipeable modular furniture. This solution would not only improve comfort and aesthetics, but also make better use of the available space, allow for flexible configurations, and meet infection prevention and control requirements.

ROC was proud to support this application,

“The difference this has made to the team is huge. Having a comfortable, welcoming space to step away to, even for a short break, really helps staff to reset—especially given the nature of the work on this ward. It’s had a very positive impact on morale, and the team are incredibly grateful for the Charity’s support.”

Karen Goudie – Ward Manager for Ward 3

“Projects like this, show the real impact that charitable support can have within the hospital. By listening to staff and responding to their needs, we can help create environments that support their wellbeing day-to-day. Even relatively small changes, like improving a staff room, can make a meaningful difference to those working in high-pressure and emotionally demanding areas.”

Ali Sprason – Head of Charity & Partnerships at ROH

This improvement highlights how listening to staff feedback can lead to simple yet impactful changes. By supporting initiatives identified through VITA, the Charity continues to play an important role in enhancing day-to-day working environments across the hospital.

“This is exactly why fundraising is so important. To the staff on the ward, what may seem like a small change has made a significant difference—and it simply wouldn’t be possible without the support of those who choose to fundraise for us.”

Ruth Hughes – Fundraising Manager

ROC is committed to supporting staff wellbeing across the Trust, but we can only do this with your help. Whether you choose to donate, fundraise, or leave a legacy, your support enables us to fund more projects that make a real difference to NHS staff every day.

Quick links

Continue reading

Restoring Independance at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital

Written by Royal Orthopaedic Charity on . Posted in Donations. No Comments on Restoring Independance at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital

Restoring Freedom and Independence Through ROC’s Support

Date: 4th June 2026

At the beginning of 2026, £11,000 of charitable donations was invested to enhance the recovery journey of patients on Ward 3 (Bone Cancer Ward). Through this funding, seven brand-new self-propelled wheelchairs, each fitted with specialist cushions, were introduced to support inpatient care, particularly for oncology patients undergoing life-changing treatments.

This investment has already made a meaningful difference, both clinically and personally, for patients and staff alike.

For the Occupational Therapy (OT) team, access to appropriate equipment is essential in delivering effective rehabilitation. The additional wheelchairs funded by ROC have enabled therapists to carry out more timely assessments, reducing delays caused by limited availability, and to provide structured mobility practice as part of patients’ recovery pathways.

Tracy Gilbert, Clinical Specialist Orthopaedic Oncology Occupational Therapist, reflected on the difference this has made:

“Limited wheelchair availability previously resulted in situations where patients were restricted to transferring only into standard ward chairs or relying on porters when wishing to leave the ward. This significantly impacts their independence post-surgery and increased dependence on staff/family when our goal as OT’s is to support and promote patient independence in their everyday activities. A wheelchair provision on our ward is invaluable for restoring patient independence, mobility and confidence.”

For many patients, particularly those recovering from oncology-related amputations, regaining independence can feel like an overwhelming challenge. The availability of wheelchairs has played a crucial role in restoring that independence.

“For patients, having access to a wheelchair is about so much more than mobility,” Tracy explained. “It’s about regaining control, dignity, and confidence after what is often a life-changing experience.”

By enabling patients to move more freely, the wheelchairs contribute to a more dignified and empowering patient journey.

While the benefits for patients are clear, the OT team at ROH also experienced a positive impact on service delivery. Access to appropriate equipment supports more efficient assessments, improved therapeutic interventions, and more effective discharge planning.

This investment by ROC highlights the powerful role that charitable funding can play in enhancing patient care. The provision of enhanced equipment has not only improved clinical outcomes but has also enriched the overall patient experience, supporting both physical rehabilitation and emotional wellbeing.

Ruth Hughes, Fundraising Manager, also shared her reflections:

“It’s been lovely to see patients, staff, and families using these wheelchairs across the site and to witness the impact first-hand. We’ve seen families enjoying lunch together in the courtyard, which is special to see.”

With continued support, ROC can help deliver more initiatives like this—providing essential equipment, enhancing rehabilitation, and restoring independence for patients when they need it most.

If you would like to support projects like this and make a difference to patients and their families, please consider donating or getting involved with ROC. Every contribution helps us continue to improve care, comfort, and outcomes across the hospital.

Make a donation

Leave a gift in your will

Fundraise for us

Continue reading

Samantha’s Story

Written by Royal Orthopaedic Charity on . Posted in How your support helps. No Comments on Samantha’s Story

Samantha’s Story

Posted 11th May 2026

For Samantha Evans, The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital (ROH) has been a constant presence throughout a complex and deeply personal healthcare journey—one shaped by years of unanswered questions and persistent pain.

On the 3rd May, Samantha took on the Great Birmingham Run, raising over £450 for the Royal Orthopaedic Charity (ROC) in support of the hospital that has played such a life‑changing role in her care.

Samantha first visited her GP at just 11 years old with ongoing joint pain. For the next 12 years, her repeated attempts to seek help from primary care services were dismissed. She was told her pain was due to “growing pains, hormones or a low pain threshold.” Despite multiple referrals to physiotherapy, nothing provided relief.

It wasn’t until June 2020 that Samantha was finally referred for further investigation. With physiotherapy services closed during the Covid‑19 pandemic, her GP referred her to ROH, initially with suspected hip impingement. By that point, her condition had significantly deteriorated.

“I couldn’t get out of bed in the morning, couldn’t drive long distances, fell over when getting out of cars, and my hip gave way multiple times while I was teaching my Year 5 class.”

ROH diagnosed Samantha with bilateral hip dysplasia, a condition that would go on to shape the following years of her life.

Bilateral hip dysplasia occurs when both hip sockets are too shallow to properly support the ball of the thigh bone, leading to pain, instability and increased wear on the joint. Although usually present from birth, symptoms may not appear until adolescence or adulthood—particularly when both hips are affected.

In 2024, Samantha received an additional diagnosis of arthritis and is currently awaiting further scans to investigate ongoing shoulder issues.

Over the years, Samantha has become very familiar with ROH, spending time across multiple departments for both inpatient and outpatient care. Although her triple pelvic osteotomies (TPOs) were carried out elsewhere, ROH played a vital role in her ongoing treatment and recovery. This included the removal of metalwork from both hips, followed by a left total hip replacement.

Alongside surgery, Samantha has undergone extensive investigations and rehabilitation, including X‑rays, MRIs, hydrotherapy and physiotherapy—each instrumental in managing pain and restoring mobility.

When asked to describe the care she received at ROH, Samantha doesn’t hesitate:

“Outstanding.”

She recalls a defining moment following her TPO surgeries, when her symptoms were repeatedly dismissed elsewhere.

“When I saw my consultant at ROH, he listened and made me feel validated in a way I hadn’t before. He simply said, ‘I’m sorry you are still going through this,’ and immediately worked to find the cause. That empathy made all the difference.”

It was this compassion, alongside clinical expertise, that stood out most.

“I remember a nurse holding my hand when I broke down in the corridor after learning I needed a hip replacement. I remember physiotherapists who literally moved my feet for me when I couldn’t do it myself.

The compassion was everywhere—from the nurse who brushed my hair, to the hydrotherapy staff who pushed me to keep going, the anaesthetist who had me laughing before surgery, and the volunteer who sat with me on the ward simply to keep me company.”

For Samantha, these small but powerful acts defined her experience.

Today, she supports ROH through fundraising for ROC, motivated by the lasting impact the hospital has had on her life.

“Without this hospital, my life would look very different. It isn’t an exaggeration to say ROH is life‑changing. Before my surgeries, I could barely walk and was missing out on so much. Since my hip replacement, I’m full of hope for the future. The fact I can even attempt a 10k run is a testament to how much ROH has helped me.”

In addition to running the Great Birmingham Run, Samantha has also hosted a community quiz night, helping to raise vital funds in support of pioneering orthopaedic care and research.

Stories like Samantha’s show just how powerful compassion, expert care and community support can be. Every patient’s journey is unique, and every act of fundraising or sharing a story helps ensure ROH can continue changing lives for the future.

Without this hospital, my life would look very different. It isn’t an exaggeration to say ROH is life‑changing.

Samantha Evans

ROC would like to say a huge thank you to Samantha for supporting the hospital, sharing her story, fundraising and bringing her local community together. Its acts like these that help others in similar situations feel heard, comforted and no alone.

If ROH has been part of your journey, we’d love to hear your story. And if you’re looking for a way to give back—whether through fundraising, taking on a challenge, or supporting an event—you’ll be helping others receive the same outstanding care.

To share your story or find out how you can fundraise for ROC, get in touch with us at roc@nhs.net.



See more

Continue reading

New Ultrasound Scanner

Written by Royal Orthopaedic Charity on . Posted in Donations. No Comments on New Ultrasound Scanner

New Ultrasound Scanner

Date: 5th May 2026

On Monday 27 April, ROC were delighted to welcome Nigel Clemson, Andrew R. Armbrister and Eric Rymer from the Mark Benevolent Fund and the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masonsto showcase our Siemens Logiq Totus Ultrasound scanner, made possible through our successful grant application to the Mark Benevolent fund.

The visit provided an opportunity to see first-hand how this innovative equipment will enhance patient care across the Trust.

About the New Scanner

The new ultrasound scanner is a comprehensive, next‑generation solution designed to deliver high‑quality imaging alongside AI‑powered diagnostic support. It combines advanced technology with efficiency and ease of use, while remaining highly portable and suitable for use across multiple care settings.

How It Improves Patient Care

During the visit, guests were introduced to:

  • Kirsty Walker, Deputy Head of Imaging
  • Liz Loach, Head of Imaging
  • Dr Hasaam Uldin, Radiologist

They explained the many benefits of the new scanner, including clearer, more detailed images, built‑in image storage, and excellent portability. This allows the device to be easily moved between departments, including wards, theatres, imaging suites, and even bedside use.

The scanner plays an important role in supporting biopsy procedures for patients with tumours. Images can be easily reviewed after samples are taken, which is particularly helpful if pathologists have any questions about sample viability. Radiologists can also refer to the images to confirm that samples were taken from the correct location, improving accuracy and confidence in diagnosis.

“This scanner sets a new standard for ultrasound and its use in interventional procedures within the hospital. The enhanced image quality will allow us to perform examinations and procedures with greater accuracy and confidence, directly benefiting both clinicians and patients.”—Dr Hasaam Uldin –  Consultant Radiologist

“NHS core funding is, quite understandably, focused on the most immediate clinical pressures, which meant this ultrasound scanner could not have been funded without charitable support. We are incredibly grateful to the Mark Benevolent Fund and the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons for enabling us to purchase this vital piece of equipment.” Ruth Hughes – Fundraising Manager

A Lasting Thank You

To recognise the generosity of the Mark Benevolent Fund, a commemorative plaque will be installed outside the X‑ray Department acknowledging their vital contribution.

We are incredibly grateful for this support, which will make a meaningful difference to both our patients and our clinical teams for years to come.

  • IMG_9713

  • IMG_9716

  • IMG_9720

  • IMG_9722

  • IMG_9724

  • IMG_9728

  • IMG_9731

  • IMG_9732

  • IMG_9734

  • IMG_9736

  • IMG_9738

Continue reading

May fundraising

Written by Royal Orthopaedic Charity on . Posted in Donations. No Comments on May fundraising

Thank you!

Date: 5th May 2026

A huge thank you to all our fundraisers who took part in running events over the last month.

Five incredible supporters took on a range of running challenges and together raised over £2,300 including Gift Aid—an outstanding achievement.

  • Jack completed his first ever marathon through the streets of Stratford, finishing in under four hours. An amazing accomplishment for a keen runner who hopes to one day secure a London Marathon place.
  • Issy took on the Dorney Lakes Half Marathon, finishing as the third female overall with an impressive time of 1:44:53. A fantastic performance—click here to read Issy’s story.
  • Samantha, Nicola and William each tackled the Great Birmingham Run. Thankfully the weather behaved, and all three ran brilliantly. Together, they raised over £1,000 including Gift Aid for ROC, and we couldn’t be prouder.

Thank you to everyone who supported, fundraised, shared, or cheered on this wonderful group—you truly make a difference.

If you’re a keen runner and would like to take part in a running event near you in support of ROC, please email roc@nhs.net. We’d love to hear from you.

  • Media (12)

  • Media (11)

  • Media (10)

  • Media (9)

  • Media (8)

Continue reading

Issy’s Story

Written by Royal Orthopaedic Charity on . Posted in Community Engagement. 1 Comment on Issy’s Story

Issy’s Journey
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH)

For Issy, The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital (ROH) has played a significant role in her life for many years. Diagnosed with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) as a child, she has undergone three major surgeries, including a complex Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO) — a hip preserving procedure designed to stabilise the joint.

Recovery from a TPO is a gradual process. Patients typically begin with limited weight‑bearing and rely on crutches, slowly increasing their mobility through physiotherapy. Full recovery, including rebuilding strength and returning to normal movement, can take 6–12 months as the pelvic bones heal.

Throughout this long and often challenging journey, Issy has been supported by exceptional care, compassion and encouragement from the ROH team.

Issy reflects not only on the clinical expertise that transformed her life, but also on the kindness of the people she met along the way. She remembers the cleaner who surprised her with a teddy bear and a card to celebrate her GCSE results — checking in on her every day during her stay. She recalls the Transition to Adult Services team, who helped her feel more confident and in control of her healthcare decisions. Her surgeon, Mr Bache, provided both outstanding surgical care and the reassurance she needed before and after her operations. And the hydrotherapy physiotherapists who supported her through the earliest and most difficult stages of rehabilitation.

Today, Issy is training for her first half marathon, aiming to complete the race in under two hours — a goal that once felt out of reach. Running has always been her passion, despite the pain, limitations and setbacks caused by DDH. Each mile she now runs represents both her determination and the life‑changing support she received at ROH.

Fundraising for the Royal Orthopaedic Charity is Issy’s way of giving something back.

“ROH has played such a big part in my life. The staff have been there through every operation, every setback and every milestone. I’m running to thank them for everything they’ve done.” – Issy

Issy’s mum also shares her perspective. She began running simply to support Issy at their local club, when Issy was too young to join the adult group alone. Running quickly became their shared passion, even as DDH made it a constant challenge for Issy. Every time Issy faced another operation or difficult recovery, she worked tirelessly to return to the sport she loves.

Inspired by her daughter’s determination, Issy’s mum completed her first half marathon, raising over £900 for ROC last year.

“Issy has had many operations and still faces more in the future. I wanted my first half marathon to count — to raise awareness of DDH and support the Royal Orthopaedic Charity. They help fund research and treatments that give people the chance to live pain‑free lives. Everyone deserves that.” – Issy’s Mum

Issy hopes that by sharing her story, she can inspire others and highlight the life‑changing impact of expert care, kindness and perseverance. Her commitment to giving back is already helping to support future patients on their own orthopaedic journeys.

Issy raised over £1,100 including gift aid from her fundraising efforts and we couldnt be prouder. Thank you Issy!

Why not set up your own fundraiser?!

Whether it’s a sponsored walk, a bake sale, a workplace challenge or something uniquely you, every fundraiser helps ensures that more patients receive the care, compassion and hope they deserve. Together, we can turn Issy’s journey into a ripple effect of support for countless others.

Find out more, click here.

Quick links

Continue reading

Easter bake sale 2026

Written by Royal Orthopaedic Charity on . Posted in Appeal updates, Fundraising. No Comments on Easter bake sale 2026

Bake Sale Raises Funds for ROC’s Oncology Appeal

Date: 3rd April 2026

On 2nd April, The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital (ROH) Main Outpatients area was filled with the wonderful aroma of homemade bakes as we hosted our latest ROC Bake Sale. We are delighted to share that the event was a fantastic success, raising over £290.

Thanks to the kindness of everyone who baked, donated, purchased treats or simply stopped by to support us, the bake sale raised important funds for ROC’s Oncology Appeal, helping us continue our work to enhance comfort and care for patients on the cancer ward. A special shoutout goes out to Jo, Dave and Eden (ROH Volunteers) who supported the event.

This event simply wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity and talent of those who kindly donated cakes, pastries, and sweet treats. We would like to extend our thanks to:

  • Becketts Farm
  • Sophie’s Spoonful of Sugar
  • Jo O’Hara
  • Justine Cleary
  • Ann Cartwright
  • Eden & Justine Richardson

Every donation brings us one step closer to transforming the environment for patients receiving cancer care at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital. The Oncology Appeal is focused on improving comfort, dignity, and wellbeing for patients and their loved ones — and it’s community‑led events like this that help make those improvements possible.

To find out more about this incredible appeal, visit www.rohcharity.org/oncology-appeal

  • ROC bake sale easter 26 (1)

  • ROC bake sale easter 26 (2)

  • ROC bake sale easter 26 (3)

  • ROC bake sale easter 26 (4)

  • ROC bake sale easter 26 (5)

  • ROC bake sale easter 26 (6)

  • ROC bake sale easter 26 (7)

Continue reading

Theatre Breakroom

Written by Royal Orthopaedic Charity on . Posted in Donations. No Comments on Theatre Breakroom

Theatre Staff Break Area Enhancements

Date: 24th April 2025

Thanks to a generous £3,000 grant from The Birmingham District Nursing Charitable Trust, the Theatre Staff Break Area at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital (ROH) has undergone a valuable transformation. The full grant has been utilised to purchase new, comfortable seating, creating a significantly more supportive environment for the staff who use the space every day.

Why This Project Mattered

The theatre team at ROH delivers highly specialised orthopaedic care, supporting more than 13,000 patients each year and managing complex surgical lists across orthopaedic oncology, spinal surgery, joint replacement, upper limb, sports injury, hand surgery and more. With over 100 theatre staff using the break area daily — including nurses, ODPs, surgeons, consultants, registrars, fellows, and medical students — the environment plays a crucial role in staff wellbeing.

Before the refurbishment, the space was no longer fit for purpose. Staff reported:

  • Uncomfortable, hard plastic seating
  • Mismatched, second-hand furniture
  • Limited capacity during peak break times
  • An environment not conducive to rest or decompression

The strain was particularly evident between 12–2pm, when up to 50 staff required the space for their legally mandated breaks, with many often waiting for a seat or delaying rest altogether.

What the Funding Delivered

The £3,000 grant was fully invested in:

  • Four new comfortable sofas for restorative rest
  • 3 coffee tables for additional space for drinks and food.
  • Three dining table and chair sets to improve seating capacity and comfort

These upgrades have:

  • Created a more welcoming and functional space
  • Provided ergonomic, modern furniture for staff on long, demanding shifts
  • Supported staff wellbeing and enhanced morale
  • Helped ensure staff can take breaks in a space designed for genuine rest

“Thanks to the generosity of The Birmingham District Nursing Charitable Trust, we have been able to significantly improve the theatre staff break area. Enhancing wellbeing, directly contributes to the quality-of-care teams deliver, and this grant has made a meaningful difference to the environment they rely on throughout long, demanding shifts.” – Fundraising Manager 

This refurbishment also forms an early phase of a larger, planned transformation of the Theatre Staff Area, scheduled for 2026/27 — a project closely aligned with ROC’s strategic priority of Supporting Staff.

Continue reading

Eid Celebration 2026

Written by Royal Orthopaedic Charity on . Posted in Donations. No Comments on Eid Celebration 2026

Thank You to Everyone Who Joined ROC’s Eid Celebration

Date: 25th March 2026

Yesterday, Royal Orthopaedic Charity (ROC) was delighted to host its Eid Celebration at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital — a vibrant and joyful event enjoyed by staff, patients, families, and visitors alike. Thanks to the generosity of everyone who took part, the celebration raised over £480.00 for ROC’s Oncology Appeal, supporting enhanced comfort and care for patients on the hospital’s cancer ward.

ROC would like to thank to all who attended, purchased treats, or stopped by to show their support. The atmosphere was filled with community spirit, making the celebration a wonderful success.

A special thankyou goes to Volunteers, Dave and Caroline, whose help and dedication ensured the event ran smoothly from start to finish.

A special shout‑out goes out to Dhesi Sweet Centre Ltd for generously sponsoring the celebration. This meant that more profit was made for this meaningful appeal.

To donate or fundraise for this appeal, visit www.rohcharity.org/oncology-appeal or email roc@nhs.net, we’d love to hear from you.

Continue reading