Happy Halloween from St Mark’s Hospital Foundation!
Although we may not be able to trick or treat this year due to the current covid-19 restrictions, we still hope that you have some devilishly good snacks to eat for All Hallows Eve.
Feel emPOWERed this weekend
We are delighted to share the second video in the emPOWERed conversation series. In this latest video, participants are talking about whether they consider themselves to have a disability Thank you to everyone who has shared their personal experiences and thoughts in this incredibly insightful piece. You can also get involved with the conversation online, by sharing your own experience, and what would you say in answer to this question? Simply click the image to watch the video, and keep up to date with the latest posts by following Feel emPOWERed on social media.
Just Keep running! Phil’s Mammoth ‘Virtual’ London Marathon
Phil ran this years unique ‘virtual’ London Marathon in memory of his beloved mother Mary Whelan, raising vital funds for St Mark’s Hospital. Phil was motivated to undertake this mammoth challenge event as he wanted to ensure that the hospital is able to continue to provide specialist care to those who need it most. Thank you Phil for undertaking this physically gruelling run, and even more kudos for completing the 26 miles in the horrendous weather! Thank you to everyone who supported Phil and helped him to exceed his target, raising an incredible £1.8k for St Mark’s. You can check out Phil’s JustGiving Page and support his fundraising campaign here.
Spotlight on Mental Health and Wellbeing
The 10th of October was #WorldMentalHealthDay and this year, as our lives have changed considerably due to the #COVID19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to talk about mental health and be there for one another. We want to thank long-term supporters 40tude who funded a confidential 24/7 professional counselling for NHS staff and to thank our St Mark’s community for all their acts of kindness, which have helped staff through these difficult times. Coping with a long-term condition can have a big impact on your mental wellbeing, and if you, or someone you know, is struggling with their mental health, follow the link here for more information on how to seek help. Remember that you are not alone, and you do not have to suffer in silence.
“Never underestimate the power of music”
Featured in The Times, St Mark’s Consultant Dr Maxton Pitcher talks about how playing the violin to patients and colleagues throughout the Covid-19 pandemic has helped to make a difference to people in the most difficult of circumstances. In this moving video, Dr Pitcher openly discusses his experience of working through the pandemic, and how music offered a source of comfort , as he says; “through violin-playing in the hospital, I’ve been able to cut through the harsh reality and create a special moment that people connect with” Watch the video by clicking the image above!
During these uncertain times, we offer renewed thanks to
everyone who has, and continues to supports St Mark’s
#Nevermoreneeded
Donate here to support St Mark’s Hospital Foundation