Dr Kershaw’s is an independent Hospice in Oldham and was opened in 1989 following the conversion and development of a 1930’s Cottage Hospital originally built with a legacy from Dr John Kershaw, a local General Practitioner and Medical Officer of Health.
Eager bidding began at 9am for a wide variety of prizes including a private flight with Managing Director Richard Tang from Blackpool airport for lunch overlooking Douglas Bay.
Other prizes were a meal for four cooked in your own home by Andrew Saunders, Zen’s Head of Product Management and Marketing and a guided walk and camping in Snowdonia with Robin Griffiths, Zen’s Network and Infrastructure Manager. There was even a home-baked celebration cake made by Kay-Leigh Baker, Zen’s Technical Support Team Leader.
Dr Kershaw’s provides specialist palliative care for adults with non-curable life-threatening illnesses in a peaceful and homely environment with accommodation for 12 inpatients and 15 day care places. In addition it provides support for patient’s relatives and carers.
“We were really pleased with the amount of money raised for the auction, everyone got involved either bidding or enjoying watching the action. We have built up an excellent relationship with Dr Kershaw’s through events such the Great Manchester Run and have raised nearly £6,000 so far this year for this charity", said Caroline Taylor, HR Manager and a Head of Zen’s Social and Charities Committee.
For the year 2010/11, the Hospice needs £1,700,000 to continue to operate its specialist services and maintain the standard of care – this equates to around £4,650 per day. There is no charge made to patients for any of these services. Although it does receive a percentage of money from the Primary Care Trust, the Appeal Office has to raise in excess of £1,300,000 per year. This would not be possible without the dedicated support from fundraisers, families and businesses.
To help Zen raise more today simply visit
http://www.charitygiving.co.uk/zeninternet - any support is greatly appreciated.