Young Farmers Club Raises Over £9,000 for Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthenshire
A dedicated group of young people from Carmarthenshire has successfully raised more than £9,000 for Glangwili Hospital through a series of heartfelt community events. The Llanllwni Young Farmers Club spearheaded these efforts, demonstrating their commitment to supporting vital healthcare services in the region.
Agricultural Show Success
The club's annual agricultural show proved to be a major fundraising triumph, generating £8,490.46 for the hospital's Special Care Baby Unit. This beloved event brings the local community together for a day of fun and philanthropy. Organisers described the show as having "something for everyone", featuring a produce tent with vegetables, cooking, crafts, and flowers, alongside sheep and cattle displays, a dog show, children's activities, and evening entertainment.
Reflecting on the day, organisers shared: "We had a very successful day, the sun was shining all the time, and the whole community came together for a day of fun." Fundraising is a core focus for the Young Farmers Club, with their chosen charity often holding deep personal significance for members.
For the 2025 show, the club selected the Infant Special Care Unit at Glangwili Hospital. This decision was inspired by Elain Grug, daughter of members Sara and Ieus, who spent her first month in the unit after being born over eight weeks premature. "We are forever grateful for the care Elain and her family received during these difficult times," the organisers emphasised.
Carol Singing Contributions
In December, the club continued its charitable work with a carol singing event, raising over £900 for the Chemotherapy Day Unit at Glangwili Hospital. This annual tradition involves members singing carols around the local area to spread Christmas cheer. Each year, half of the profits are donated to a chosen charity.
The event raised £922.27 specifically for the Chemotherapy Day Unit. Organisers noted: "All the members enjoyed going around the local area to get the whole community to enjoy the Christmas cheer. Members of the community, especially the elderly, are always grateful to see us at their door." They added that making fundraising fun for all members is a priority, and both activities were resounding successes.
Hospital Appreciation
Kelly Brown, Neonatal Outreach Lead for the Special Care Baby Unit, expressed heartfelt gratitude: "We would like to express our heartfelt thanks for your incredible generosity in raising money for the Infant Special Care Unit at Glangwili General Hospital. We are truly grateful that you have chosen to support our unit. Your kindness will make a meaningful difference to the babies and families we care for."
She highlighted that such fundraising efforts are essential for improving care quality and experiences during critical times. The donation is earmarked for purchasing specialist equipment to cool babies born with brain injuries, a life-saving intervention that can significantly enhance outcomes. "Your support will have a lasting impact, and we are very grateful for your commitment to helping us provide the highest standard of care now and in the future," Brown concluded.
Jessica Michael, Head Nurse of the Chemotherapy Day Unit, also extended thanks: "On behalf of the staff and patients at the Chemotherapy Day Unit at Glangwili Hospital, I would like to thank you for your fundraising efforts, which resulted in a very generous donation of £922.27. We are always looking at ways to improve the environment and improve the way we look after patients. You can be sure that this money will go towards this improvement. Thank you very much."
