How one dad is making a difference for Nottingham Children’s Hospital
Posted on: 25 Feb 2025
On 24th September 2024, two-year-old Maddison was diagnosed with a Wilms tumour - a rare form of kidney cancer. Her family’s world was turned upside down, but thanks to the swift response of the dedicated staff on Ward E39 at Nottingham Children’s Hospital, Maddison was quickly started on chemotherapy and underwent life-saving surgery to remove her kidney, where the tumour was located.
Though it’s still early days, Maddison’s family are beyond grateful to the nurses and surgeons who provided the care and expertise that saved their little girl’s life.
Seeing his daughter bravely battle cancer and lose her hair due to chemotherapy, Maddison’s dad, Jermaine, wanted to show her that she is, and always will be, perfect just as she is. In an act of solidarity, he shaved his head and beard to the skin - not only to support his daughter but also to give back to the hospital that saved her life.
Jermaine’s head and beard shave raised an incredible £610 for Ward E39, helping to fund resources and care for young patients facing similar battles.
Determined to do even more, Jermaine has pledged to take part in every Nottingham Hospitals Charity event this year, continuing to raise money and awareness for Ward E39. He shared:
"You have saved my daughter’s life, and there is nothing I can ever do to show how much that means to me. This year, I will be raising as much money as I can for Ward E39 by taking part in all of the NHC events - whether I do them on my own or with an army by my side.
Fundraising can make a real difference to the lives of patients and their families, just like Maddison and Jermaine. By taking part in one of our charity events this year, you too can help support Nottingham’s hospitals.
Whether you run, walk, abseil, or organise your own challenge, the money you raise goes towards the area of the hospital that matters most to you. Your fundraising could help fund specialist equipment, life-saving research, or enhanced facilities for patients and families.