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E Manton Fundraising

E Manton Raises Over £4,000 for Royal Orthopaedic Charity

Date: 22nd September 2026

At Royal Orthopaedic Charity (ROC), we are fortunate to work alongside organisations that share our commitment to improving the lives of patients and their families. One such supporter is E Manton Limited, whose colleagues have already raised over £4,000, through a series of fundraising challenges and events over the past six months.

With more events still to come, the team is well on its way towards their ambitious fundraising target of £5,000.

A Charity Partnership Built on Strong Relationships

E Manton has chosen ROC as its company charity because of its long-standing construction relationship with The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital.

Having worked closely with the hospital for many years, the organisation has seen first-hand the impact that specialist orthopaedic care has on patients and their families.

“We have built a strong relationship with the team and have had the opportunity to see first-hand the incredible work they do for patients and their families. Supporting ROC felt like a very natural choice for us. We wanted to give something back to an organisation that means a great deal to us and to support the vital work carried out by the hospital and its dedicated staff.”

The fundraising campaign has already seen colleagues take part in a range of events designed to test their endurance, teamwork and determination.

So far, E Manton colleagues have completed:

  • 50km Cotswold Walk in June
  • 10km Wolf Run in September

The team is now looking forward to hosting a Charity Quiz and Auction this October as they continue to build momentum towards their fundraising goal.

While the fundraising challenges themselves have attracted plenty of attention, E Manton is keen to highlight that the campaign has involved far more than just those taking part in the events.

“It really has been a team effort, with colleagues across the whole organisation getting involved in different ways. Of course, we have the teams taking part in the challenges themselves, giving up their time, getting involved in the training and pushing themselves outside of their comfort zones. But behind every event, there has also been a huge amount of work from colleagues behind the scenes. Whether you’re taking part, organising, encouraging or simply cheering from the sidelines, everyone is playing a part in helping us raise money for ROC and that’s what makes it feel like a real company-wide effort.”

The organisation hopes the funds raised will help ROC continue to enhance patient care, improve hospital facilities and support projects that make a difficult time a little easier for patients and their loved ones.

“Ultimately, we hope our fundraising can make a real and lasting difference to ROC and the work they do at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital. We would love to know that the money we raise can help support ROC’s work, whether that’s helping improve patient care, providing better facilities or supporting projects that make a difficult time a little easier for patients and their families.”

Having already raised more than three-quarters of their fundraising target, the team is excited to see what can be achieved before the end of the campaign.

“Of course, we’d love to go beyond our target if we can. To reach £5,000 would give everyone a real sense of achievement and, most importantly, we’d know that all those miles, challenges, sore muscles and fundraising efforts had added up to something that can have a genuine impact on the work ROC does.”

A Message of Thanks

“To the patients and families who have experienced the care of The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, we hope knowing that people and organisations are getting behind ROC gives you a little extra encouragement.

The work that goes on at the hospital is incredibly important, and it’s a privilege for us to play a small part in supporting it.

And to everyone who is donating, sharing our fundraising, encouraging our teams or simply asking how we’re getting on, thank you. Every bit of support gives us another reason to keep going, especially on the tougher challenges.”

Everyone at ROC would like to extend a huge thank you to the entire team at E Manton Limited for their enthusiasm, dedication and ongoing support.





“Corporate partnerships like the one we have with E Manton are invaluable. Not only do they raise vital funds to help us enhance patient care and experience, but they also help raise awareness of the work taking place across The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital. What has impressed me most about E Manton’s fundraising is the genuine enthusiasm and commitment shown by colleagues across the organisation. From taking on physical challenges to supporting events behind the scenes, every person has played a part in helping improve the lives of patients and their families. We are incredibly grateful for their continued support and are excited to see what they achieve as they work towards their £5,000 target. On behalf of everyone at ROC, thank you for helping us make more possible.” – Ruth Hughes, Fundraising Manager

By taking on challenging events, bringing colleagues together and championing our cause, they have already raised an incredible £3,825, helping us continue to enhance care and improve the experience of patients and families at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital.

With the Charity Quiz and Auction still to come, we can’t wait to see what this fantastic team achieves next.

Good luck, E Manton, and thank you for helping us make more possible.

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Supporters take on The Wolf Run for ROC’s Oncology Appeal

Supporters take on The Wolf Run for ROC’s Oncology Appeal

Date: 16th September 2026

The Royal Orthopaedic Charity (ROC) would like to extend a huge thank you and congratulations to everyone who took part in the Wolf Run on 12-13 September in support of our Oncology Appeal.

Braving mud, water, obstacles, and challenging terrain, teams from Judd Medical and E Manton, alongside The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital Catering colleagues Nathan and Brandon, took on the demanding course to raise vital funds for patients receiving treatment at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital.

Together, these incredible fundraisers have raised more than £6,600, including Gift Aid, for ROC’s Oncology Appeal.

The Wolf Run is renowned for testing participants’ endurance, teamwork, and determination, making it a fitting challenge for those committed to making a difference for others. Over the course of the weekend, our runners pushed themselves well beyond their comfort zones, demonstrating remarkable dedication to supporting patients and families affected by bone and soft tissue cancers.

Funds raised through ROC’s Oncology Appeal help us continue to enhance cancer care at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, supporting projects and initiatives that improve the patient experience, wellbeing, and hospital environment during what can be an incredibly difficult time.

We are incredibly grateful to our corporate supporters, Judd Medical and E Manton, for choosing to support ROC and for encouraging their teams to take on this challenge. Their commitment to giving back to the community makes a real and lasting difference.

Special thanks must also go to Nathan, Ellie-Mae and Brandon from the ROH Catering Team, whose enthusiasm and determination inspired colleagues across the hospital and helped raise awareness of the appeal.

Every donation, every mile run, and every obstacle conquered will help us continue our mission of enhancing care and experiences for patients and their loved ones.

From all of us at ROC, thank you for your incredible support and congratulations on an outstanding achievement!

If you would like to learn more about our oncology appeal, visit: http://www.rohcharity.org/oncology



  • Wolf Run 2026 – Nathan Reade 3

  • Wolf Run 2026 – Judd Medical (1)

  • Wolf Run 2026 – E Manton (4)

  • Wolf Run 2026 – Nathan Reade 1

  • Wolf Run 2026 – Judd Medical (4)

  • Wolf Run 2026 – Judd Medical (1)

  • Wolf Run 2026 – E Manton (2)

  • Wolf Run 2026 – E Manton (6)

  • Wolf Run 2026 – Brandon

  • Wolf Run 2026 – Judd Medical (2)

  • Wolf Run 2026 – Brandon & Ellie

  • Wolf Run 2026 – E Manton (5)

  • Wolf Run 2026 – Nathan Reade

  • Wolf Run 2026 – Judd Medical (3)

  • Wolf Run 2026 – E Manton (3)

  • Wolf Run 2026 – E Manton (1)

  • Wolf Run 2026 – Nathan Reade 2

  • Wolf Run 2026 – Nathan Reade 4

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“I Probably Owe My Life to ROH” – Brian’s Chondrosarcoma Journey

Brian’s Chondrosarcoma Journey

“I Probably Owe My Life to ROH” 

Date: 2nd September 2026

When Brian’s routine prostate cancer investigations revealed an unexpected lesion in his left femur, it led to a diagnosis of a rare bone cancer and life-changing bone cancer surgery at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital (ROH).

Today, following major surgery, rehabilitation and ongoing follow-up care, Brian is cancer-free and determined to share his story in recognition of the teams who helped save his life.


Brian had experienced occasional pain in his leg for some time, gradually worsening throughout 2024. After investigations confirmed the lesion had grown significantly, he was referred to The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in January 2025.

Following specialist scans and an intense biopsy, it was confirmed that Brian had chondrosarcoma.

“Chondrosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that affects the inner part of the bone. There is no treatment that will destroy the cancer. Only removal of the affected bone will prevent it spreading.”

Shortly after receiving his diagnosis, Brian met Professor Abudu, who would perform the surgery. Professor Abudu specialises in oncology surgeries. He is a long-standing outstanding surgeon at The ROH, and has supported many families through similar journeys.

“Professor Abudu is a man of great kindness, empathy and humour who was able to reassure us at a very difficult time.”

In March 2025, Brian underwent major surgery to remove the cancer. His femur and hip were replaced with a metal implant to ensure all the cancer was removed.

” I was immobile for some weeks, but the care and attention I received at ROH was wonderful.”

“There were times when the pain was so great and my progress seemed so slow. I did not seem to be making progress, and the fact that I needed personal care was very traumatic for me.”

Throughout his stay, Brian recalled the support of ROH staff made all the difference. A key part of Brian’s recovery was the support he received from the hospital’s physiotherapy team.

“The physiotherapists were wonderful in helping me to first get out of bed, then to move about, and finally to climb stairs.”

“They were all very supportive but firm in their approach. They took no prisoners!”

“Here is a photo before my surgery. One of me and my wife, Valerie, and our two children, Daniel and Douglas (who both, by the way work for NHS).”


Being treated at a national specialist centre also meant Brian and his family had to travel a considerable distance for his care. Living in Hull, approximately 100 miles from Birmingham, added another layer of challenge during an already difficult time. While Brian was recovering in hospital, his wife was fortunate to be able to stay with family in Kidderminster. Even then, she faced a daily journey of around 40 minutes each way to visit him.

Without that support network, the family could have faced significant accommodation costs to remain close to the hospital during Brian’s recovery, highlighting one of the often-unseen pressures experienced by patients and families who require specialist treatment far from home.

After being discharged from Birmingham and returning home to Hull, Brian continued his recovery with the support of his wife, Valerie.

“My dear wife, Valerie, then took over all the nursing care and looked after me wonderfully. I was so grateful to have her care and support. I think the role of carers is greatly undervalued. I could not have managed without her care and support.”

Three months later, Brian returned to ROH for an intensive week of physiotherapy and hydrotherapy. This is something routinely given to oncology patients to help progress their recovery further.

“Staff were very professional and supportive. I made significant progress during that week and was much more mobile upon my discharge.”

Since his surgery, Brian has continued with his exercises and gradually progressing from using crutches to a walking stick and states he can now move around his home independently.

Regular follow-up appointments and scans continue to show positive results.

“Every three months I have returned for consultations and scans and, so far, there is no recurrence of the cancer.”

Reflecting on his experience, Brian is full of praise for the teams who cared for him throughout his diagnosis, surgery and recovery.

“I will always be grateful to the dedicated, supportive staff of ROH. The teams took the greatest care of me and also of my wife during the hardest times.”

“They have continued to help me back to health and the opportunity to live a full life.”

And finally, a message he hopes all staff at ROH will hear:

“Thank you to everyone who works there. You are the very best of us.”

Brian has gone on to donate to ROC to give back after the months of treatment he received at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital.

His generosity will help support future patients accessing specialist care, rehabilitation and support services, ensuring others can benefit from the same outstanding care that helped him return to an active and independent life.

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Art for Health, making meaningful change!

Art for Health – Making meaningful change!

Date: 2nd September 2026

Living with chronic pain can be isolating, affecting not only physical health but also confidence, wellbeing and everyday quality of life. At The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital (ROH), the Art for Health programme, funded by ROC, is helping patients discover new ways to manage these challenges through creativity and connection. 

Funded by ROC, and led by Consultant in Pain Medicine Dr Liza Tharakan, Art for Health offers creative workshops as part of a wider pain management pathway. Supported by a dedicated Arts Coordinator and delivered by professional artists, the programme provides a welcoming space where patients can try new activities, meet others with shared experiences and focus on their strengths rather than their pain. 

Over the past year, 23 patients took part in 28 group sessions, across a range of creative activities including pottery, painting, music, singing and arts and crafts. Most participants completed a series of workshops, allowing them to build their skills, confidence and connections over time. 

Patients completed recognised wellbeing questionnaires before and after taking part, with results showing clear improvements across a range of measures.  

  • Mental wellbeing scores improved for 80% of participants, while 77% reported greater confidence in their ability to manage their pain.  
  • Participants also experienced improved health-related quality of life, and an impressive 94% said they felt more creative and confident in their creative abilities after attending the workshops. 

Many described the workshops as helping them relax, improve their mood and take their minds away from pain. Others spoke about the value of meeting people who understood what they were going through, reducing feelings of loneliness and creating a sense of community and support. 

Participants consistently rated the workshops highly, with most scores ranging between eight and ten out of ten.  





Participants described Art for Health as “transformative”, “a great prescription” and “priceless for knowing you are not alone” 

The programme costing approximately £18,000 per year to deliver, supports around 30 patients annually through a programme of workshops and creative engagement. This equates to around £25 per participant per session, delivering measurable improvements in wellbeing, self-management and quality of life while providing a valuable non-medical complement to traditional pain management approaches. 

As demand for holistic approaches to healthcare continues to grow, Arts for Health is demonstrating the powerful difference that creativity can make 

Continued support will ensure that even more patients can benefit from this proven and inspiring service, using the power of creativity to help them live better, healthier and more connected lives. 

Ruth Hughes, Fundraising Manager stated “Art for Health is a fantastic example of how holistic care can support medical interventions for those living with chronic pain. What’s particularly encouraging is the evidence behind the programme, with participants reporting improvements in wellbeing, confidence and their ability to manage pain. We are very proud to have supported and to continue to support this incredible initiative” 

You can support art for health by donating and/or fundraising directly to this project.  

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A huge thank you goes out to the Anton Jurgens Charitble Trust for its generous support towards the Art for Health programme for 2026/27. This funding will help ensure that more patients living with chronic pain can benefit from the proven impact of creative activities, peer support and wellbeing-focused interventions. We are incredibly grateful for the Trust’s commitment to improving the lives of patients across our community. 

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Business for Birmingham Chooses ROC as Charity Partner for Autumn NetWalk

Business for Birmingham Chooses ROC as Charity Partner for Autumn NetWalk

Date: 26th August 2026

Royal Orthopaedic Charity (ROC) is delighted to announce that we have been chosen as the charity partner for the upcoming Business for Birmingham Autumn NetWalk, bringing together businesses from across the region for an afternoon of networking, fundraising and fun.

This year’s event has been inspired by the story of Olivia, whose journey highlights the impact specialist rehabilitation can have on young patients and their families.

Celebrating Olivia’s Journey

After being diagnosed with cancer in April 2024 at just eight years old, Olivia underwent a year of treatment before proudly ringing the bell in April 2025 to mark the end of her cancer treatment.

Following treatment, Olivia was referred to The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital for specialist rehabilitation. Like many young patients, moving to a new hospital environment brought understandable challenges, but the support she received from the hospital’s dedicated teams helped her regain confidence and continue her recovery journey.

Today, Olivia is enjoying life again and recently celebrated another important milestone by attending her school prom.

Going Purple for ROC

To celebrate Olivia’s incredible resilience, this year’s NetWalk will embrace a Purple Disco theme, inspired by Olivia’s favourite colour.

Participants are being encouraged to don their brightest purple outfits, whether that’s a purple shirt, glasses, wig or full disco attire, as they take part in the event and help raise funds to support patients at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital.

The Power of Business Supporting Charity

As a charity, ROC relies on support from individuals, community groups and businesses to help fund projects that enhance the experience of patients, families and staff across the hospital.

We are incredibly grateful to Business for Birmingham for choosing ROC as their charity partner and for creating an opportunity for local businesses to come together, make valuable connections and support an important cause.

Events such as the Autumn NetWalk demonstrate how the business community can make a meaningful difference, helping charities like ROC fund projects and services that go beyond what NHS funding alone can provide.

With sponsor support already confirmed and a brand-new twist on the popular NetWalk Quiz planned, attendees can expect an afternoon packed with networking opportunities, fundraising and friendly competition.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the team at Business for Birmingham for their support and look forward to seeing businesses from across the region come together in support of ROC.

Interested in taking part? Visit Business for Birmingham to register your team and help make a difference for patients at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital.

Interested in supporting ROC? Click here to email the team directly!

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Judd Medical Takes on the Wolf Run for ROC’s Oncology Appeal

Judd Medical Takes on the Wolf Run for ROC’s Oncology Appeal

Date: 26th August 2026

The Royal Orthopaedic Charity (ROC) is delighted to celebrate the ongoing support of valued corporate partner Judd Medical, whose team is gearing up to tackle the Wolf Run in aid of ROC’s Oncology Appeal.

Judd Medical has been connected to The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital for many years through the supply of specialist medical products, creating a longstanding relationship with the hospital and the patients it serves. Following their support of ROC’s Festive Glow Up campaign in 2025 and their pledge to support our Christmas patient gifts appeal this year, the team is now stepping up once again by taking on one of the UK’s toughest obstacle course challenges.

Taking part as The Judd Wolf Pack, the team hopes to raise £3,000 to support the transformation of oncology side rooms at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital. The project aims to create warm, calming and homely spaces for patients receiving cancer treatment, helping to improve comfort, wellbeing and dignity during what can be an incredibly challenging time.

For Judd Medical, supporting the appeal is a natural extension of the relationship they have built with the hospital over many years.

“As a company, we’ve proudly supplied specialist medical products to The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital for many years, so this is a cause that means a great deal to all of us at Judd Medical. Supporting the hospital beyond the work we do day to day and helping improve the experience of patients going through cancer treatment is something we feel genuinely passionate about.”

Preparation for the Wolf Run has become a team effort across the business, with colleagues getting involved in fundraising activities and social media campaigns to help spread the word. Those taking part know the challenge ahead will test their stamina, teamwork and determination, but they are united by a cause they care deeply about.

“The team is looking forward to taking on the challenge together, raising as much as possible and making a lasting difference to patients and their families”

Everyone at ROC would like to thank Judd Medical for their continued support and partnership. Their commitment demonstrates the incredible impact corporate supporters can have on the lives of those receiving care at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital.

We wish The Judd Wolf Pack the very best of luck as they tackle the mud, obstacles and miles ahead. We’ll be cheering them on every step of the way.

If you’d like to support the team’s fundraising efforts, please consider making a donation and helping them reach their £3,000 target.

Click here to visit their JustGiving page

Interested in supporting ROC? Click here to email us directly.

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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.


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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.

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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.

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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.



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