Hundreds of Santas transformed Colchester’s Castle Park into a sea of red and white yesterday (3 December) to raise nearly £26,000 for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity.
More than 300 fundraisers dressed in Santa suits braved wintery conditions to take on the annual Santa Fun Run. The event was organised by Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, which supports East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT).
Among those taking part were members of Ada’s Army (pictured above). They donned their running shoes to thank Ipswich Hospital for the ongoing care which two-year-old Ada Brame has been receiving for a rare genetic disease called Aicardi-Goutirès Syndrome, which affects the brain, immune system and skin.
So far they have raised more than £7,000 for the Children’s Appeal, which is transforming the Children’s Department. The money will help to fund indoor and outdoor sensory and play equipment to reduce anxiety and create calming spaces to aid recovery for children like Ada.
Ada’s mum Helen Crozier said: “We are so glad we could be part of the Santa Fun Run to show our sincere thanks. The staff are amazing and so are my family. I couldn’t have got through any of this without them – they are incredible.”
Cait Pilkington, the charity’s events manager, said: “We would like to thank everyone that supported us, including the participants, suppliers and volunteers who made the fun run possible.
“Their support and commitment have been truly inspiring. Together, they have made a significant difference to the lives of our patients, and we are incredibly grateful for their generosity.”
Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity is arranging a variety of fundraising events for 2024. Find out how you could get involved by visiting the charity’s website.
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