Teenager with cystic fibrosis walking 10k at Stars Appeal’s Walk for Wards

She suffers from cystic fibrosis and will be walking 10k at the Stars Appeal's Walk for Wards to raise money for the Children's unit at Salisbury District Hospital. They are also being joined by Vicki’s partner Wayne Wroe.

The 15-year-old, who has stayed on Sarum Children’s Ward, said: “It is a way we can give back to the Children’s Unit for all they have done for us. Obviously, going to the hospital is not great but the staff make it better. They are amazing and like a second family.”

Hannah was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF) when she was just 18 days old and has been treated by the children’s unit since she was two.

CF causes mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system which can cause lung infections and problems with digesting food. There is currently no cure for the condition.

“It came as quite a shock,” explains mum Vicki. “The children’s unit has been so amazing with her and with me as well. The support we’ve had and the facilities they provide are fantastic. We appreciate everything they do.”

Speaking about her CF, Hannah says that “it can be hard with all the medicines I have to take as I have to take a lot” but she still enjoys playing sports.

Vicki added: “Despite her life-limiting condition she never lets it hold her back and she is very sporty.”

This will be the fourth time Hannah and Vicki have taken part in Walk for Wards.

Money raised for Sarum Children’s Unit goes towards funding enhancements to the furnishings and decor on the ward as well as multi-sensory toys, and diagnostic and treatment equipment.

“It is a really fun day and a great atmosphere,” said Hannah.

Dr Rowena Staples, who is a consultant paediatrician on the Children's Unit and a Stars Appeal Hospital Ambassador, added: “We can’t thank the people of our local area enough for the difference they make to the experience of children in our hospital by raising funds for our charity, the Stars Appeal. I look forward to seeing many of you at Walk for Wards.”

The Stars Appeal is the charity for Salisbury District Hospital. Every day, work funded by the charity helps hundreds of patients at Salisbury District Hospital and supports the NHS staff who care for them. The Stars Appeal aims to raise over £1million each year to fund projects which offer direct, practical support to patients, their families, and the Hospital’s staff.

The charity works to ensure that babies receive the best possible care using the most advanced equipment and that their parents can stay alongside them in dedicated accommodation.

Walk for Wards is free to enter and there are three routes to choose from – a 3k, 5k and 10k. Those wanting to take part need to register by Sunday, July 2nd. To sign up visit https://starsappeal.org/events/sign-up-for-walk-for-wards/