More than sixty golfers have swung into action for a heartfelt cause, raising a fantastic £4,100 to create a peaceful garden for cancer patients at a Lincolnshire hospital.
A Tribute to Julia's Memory
The sixth annual Julia Cracknell Golf Day took place at Market Rasen Golf Club in September 2025. The event was organised by Jim Smith in loving memory of his wife, Julia, who showed immense bravery during her four-year battle with ovarian cancer.
Jim expressed his deep gratitude, stating that the event was his way of thanking the incredible medical teams. "I will always be so grateful for the treatment and care these amazing doctors and nurses gave to Julia," he said. "I know the money raised will be used to help other cancer patients and the dedicated staff who work on Ingham Ward at Lincoln County Hospital."
Funding a Sanctuary for Patients and Families
The funds from this year's successful tournament will be directed towards a special project within the Oncology Department at Lincoln County Hospital. The money will help create a relaxing garden, offering patients and their loved ones a tranquil outdoor space to find solace while waiting for treatment.
Deputy Sister Liz Timms shared her appreciation for the donation. "We are so grateful to Jim and the golfers who supported his event," she said. "Donations like this make a huge difference, helping us create an outdoor space where patients and families can enjoy the sunshine during what can be a very difficult time."
A Legacy of Support for Local Healthcare
This latest fundraising effort brings the total amount raised for the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity in Julia's memory to an astounding more than £30,000.
Charity manager Ben Petts highlighted the direct impact of such community generosity. "Every penny raised by Jim and the golfers in memory of Julia has been used to directly support our patients, their families, and the staff who care for them across Lincolnshire’s hospitals," he confirmed.
He also noted the wider context of charitable giving, adding, "Last year alone, we received over £500,000 in donations, which is making a massive difference in transforming healthcare across our hospitals."
The donation was formally accepted by Professor Karen Dunderdale, chief executive of the Lincolnshire Community and Hospitals NHS Group, alongside Jim Smith, Liz Timms, and Ben Petts.
