Brave fundraisers take on Big QMC Abseil!

Last weekend, over 90 amazing fundraisers abseiled 100 feet down the side of the Queen’s Medical Centre, all to raise money for Nottingham’s NHS Hospitals.

A total of 92 intrepid supporters took on our Big QMC Abseil on Saturday 18 September, so far raising more than £25,000 for Nottingham Hospitals Charity.

Patients, family members, local businesses and hospital staff all joined together to take part in our first in-person fundraising event since the start of the pandemic, and we were so delighted to see everyone!

Participant Natalie Hickinbottom said: “After the QMC taking such good care of my son Oliver, who had a brain tumour, I wanted to raise money as big thank you. Covid meant the abseil was cancelled twice but finally the day arrived! With fantastic communication, information and signs about where to go, I made my way up to the roof.

“All the fundraising ladies were bright and bubbly and I chatted with fellow people who were abseiling, all sharing why we were there and encouraging each other. The abseiling people were patient and kind (with me being a fairly big wimp) and it could not have been safer. I loved the experience so much, I have already made enquiries about the next one.”

Fellow abseiler Alexis Tizzard, who took part with her mum Gail, said: “We both really enjoyed the experience and felt very safe throughout! We were pleased to take part in something fun, but also worthwhile, we would definitely do it again!! For me personally, my mum is such a wonderful inspiration and obviously where I get my thrill seeking streak from.”

Ten members of staff from our Big QMC Abseil sponsors, Shredall SDS Group, also took part in the event.

Nik Williams, Group Managing Director for Shredall SDS Group, said: “The abseil was a great event which all of the team enjoyed! It was very well organised and the safety experts put our minds at ease. It was a challenge for a few to overcome fears of heights through to some who got down very confidently and quickly!

“We found it a great team building exercise, along with fundraising for a fabulous cause. A great way to spend a morning.”

Thank you to everyone who took part, as well as all the cheerleaders who came along for moral support on the day!