Tongue cancer patient Helen Lynch was so grateful to her surgeon for saving her life, that she has raised more than £30,000 so far to help others on the same journey.
Helen’s surgeon, Raad Glore, has hailed her efforts “phenomenal” and said money she has raised so far for Bradford Hospitals’ Charity through her fashion shows has already helped to fund a life-saving FK retractor. The retractor, which works alongside the Da Vinci Robot, makes oral surgery significantly easier and more successful, said Mr Glore.
Helen’s latest fashion show, which was held at the Bankfield Mercure, Bingley, last month raised £9,750, which has now been matched by Barclays Bank, bringing the total to £19,500. She had previously raised £12,000 in 2019.
Head and Neck Consultant Mr Glore, who is based at Bradford Royal Infirmary, said: “Helen’s contribution has been phenomenal. The money she raised in 2019 contributed to the NK retractor, which can be crucial to the success of the operation for some patients, because it allows much easier access to the cancer.
“We’re now exploring options for how to invest money Helen raised during her latest fashion show, but we know it will help us improve some aspects of the cancer treatment journey, and for that we are very grateful.”
Helen, of Bradford, thanked everyone for their support. She said: “I was diagnosed with tongue cancer in 2016 and I want future patients undergoing similar treatment to have the best possible outcome.”
Hayley Collis, Head of Fundraising for Bradford Hospitals’ Charity, said: “Our Ear Nose and Throat surgeons are just incredible and save countless lives because of their experience, knowledge and expertise. But they always strive for even better. Thanks to Helen’s inspirational fundraising, they will have the latest equipment to make sure our patients have the very best outcomes.
“It’s been so important to Helen to fundraise for the team which looked after her during her tongue cancer journey, and to help future patients. We can’t thank her enough for her tireless dedication, and for a fabulous night. The fashion show was a roaring success, yet again.
“For a whole year, Helen and her family and friends meticulously planned the event, but I know how hard everyone who attended on the night worked to maximise all these efforts and for that I thank everyone.”
Helen Lynch was joined by a team who assisted with the production of the fashion show and shopping event. The team included: Deana Morgan – Compere and choreographer, Jo Thaper – Ladylike Fashions, Danielle Ockerby – Ockerby Academy, and Cecilia Costello – Cecilia Costello Photography. She was also joined by volunteers who modelled on the night, ran stalls and raised money.
Anyone wishing to express their thanks by making a donation to Bradford Hospitals’ Charity – the official NHS charity partner of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – should visit https://bradfordhospitalscharity.enthuse.com