A Southend-based choir has helped improve care for seriously ill newborns through its concerts, funding new equipment for Southend Hospital’s Neonatal Unit. Vocal Ease, through Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, has funded a specialist AccuVein vein finder that is now in use and already benefiting the hospital’s smallest patients. The handheld device uses near-infrared technology to help clinicians locate veins quickly and accurately, reducing discomfort for babies and distress for parents.
The donation is especially meaningful for Vocal Ease founder Lesley Fleming, whose grandson Jose-Luka received lifesaving care from the neonatal team shortly after his birth. Now 14, Jose-Luka required intensive treatment, including multiple blood transfusions, after being admitted to Southend Hospital at just 24 hours old. Lesley, from Benfleet, said: “There were many times when we feared Jose-Luka wouldn’t make it. Our choir is committed to supporting the neonatal unit as much as we can – we are forever grateful to the incredible staff who saved his life.”
Costing £2,514.50, the vein finder has been warmly welcomed by staff. Jen Foster, Southend Neonatal Ward manager at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This technology reduces the need for repeated attempts to find a vein during procedures, making care gentler for babies and less stressful for parents. We’re extremely grateful to Vocal Ease for their generous support.” The AccuVein machine is state of the art and is in addition to other vein support technology available in the neonatal units.
Vocal Ease has supported Southend Hospital’s Neonatal Unit since 2009, raising more than £15,000 through concerts and fundraising events. The choir’s ongoing efforts continue to make a significant impact on the care provided to the hospital’s youngest patients, demonstrating the power of community fundraising in enhancing healthcare services.
