February marks Heart Month across the nation, and in Basildon, a dedicated hospital nurse is embarking on a series of solo walking challenges with a vital mission: to raise crucial funds supporting further improvements for cardiac patients.
A Personal Mission for Cardiac Care
Shona Perry, a resident of Laindon, serves as a nurse within the world-renowned Essex Cardiothoracic Centre (CTC) at Basildon Hospital. This centre is celebrated for its numerous UK and world-leading innovations in heart care. Her fundraising efforts are directly aimed at supporting this pioneering facility.
On Sunday, February 1st, Shona got her own heart pumping by completing a significant walk from Southend Hospital to Basildon Hospital. This is just the beginning of her ambitious plans.
Pushing Limits for a Cause
Later this year, she will also take on the formidable Kent Downs 50km ultra challenge. A mother of three, Shona studied for her nursing degree while working and raising her family, demonstrating remarkable dedication.
Her motivation for working in cardiothoracic nursing and undertaking this fundraiser is deeply personal. Shona shared: "Seventeen years ago, my dad passed away from an undiagnosed heart condition. That's something that's always stayed with me."
"I started walking for my own health and stress levels, and over time, I came across ultra challenges to see how far I could push myself. I know that working with patients on our cardiothoracic wards is exactly where I'm supposed to be, and that my experiences have led me here."
"I'll do everything I can to give back and to help patients have the best possible care."
Funding Future Enhancements
Shona hopes her walking endeavours will generate funds to significantly enhance the patient experience at the CTC. The potential uses for the donations are wide-ranging and impactful:
- Improving ward environments for greater comfort and recovery.
- Providing new, state-of-the-art medical equipment.
- Offering vital support for ongoing research initiatives.
This initiative highlights the profound commitment of healthcare professionals who go above and beyond their clinical duties to advocate for and directly contribute to the advancement of their specialist fields.
