Heart Patient’s Gift of Thanks: £4,000 Raised for Royal Stoke’s Cardiac Ward After Life-Saving Surgery

A grateful patient who underwent life-saving heart surgery Royal Stoke University Hospital has celebrated his 60th birthday by raising over £4,000 for the ward that cared for him, in support of the Hospital’s charity, UHNM Charity.

Colin Powell asked friends and family to forgo birthday gifts and instead donate to Ward 223, the cardiac ward at the Royal Stoke University Hospital. The incredible generosity of his guests at a birthday party resulted in a donation of £4,035 for UHNM Charity, which will be used directly by the ward to enhance patient care and support staff.

Colin’s journey began three years ago when he suffered a heart attack. Amid the pressures of the Covid-19 pandemic, he was transferred to Stoke where he was told he needed a triple heart bypass.

“When they told me I needed a triple heart bypass, it was a shock,” Colin recalled. “At first, I thought I could just get back to work, but you have to put trust in the team.”

His surgery was performed the day after the Queen’s funeral by Consultant Cardiac Surgeon Mr Abid, who has been at UHNM for over 22 years. Colin’s experience on Ward 223 left a profound impact.

“Mr Abid and the staff explained everything clearly, treated me with respect, and looked after me so well. I had complete confidence in them,” Colin said. “The professionalism, the friendliness, and even the humour from the staff made a difficult time much easier.”

It was this outstanding level of care that inspired Colin to give back. “For my 60th birthday I asked people, instead of giving presents, to donate to Ward 223. We managed to raise £4,035, and I’m very proud of that… The money goes straight to the ward for equipment and patient care, and it really makes a difference.”

Mr Abid emphasised the critical importance of such donations. “The NHS provides core care, but donations help us buy extra equipment and improve treatment for future patients. Fundraising like Colin’s is extremely important.”

He also highlighted the team effort behind successful patient outcomes. “We’ve achieved some of the best surgical outcomes in the country, but that’s down to the whole team — not just the surgeons. Two years after his surgery, seeing Colin well and smiling is the best reward for our work.”

The funds raised by Colin will be allocated directly to Ward 223 through UHNM Charity, paying for state-of-the-art medical equipment, enhanced training for staff, and additional comforts for patients undergoing treatment.

“We are so touched by Colin’s fantastic fundraising efforts,” said Lisa Thomson, UHNM Charity Director. “His story is a powerful testament to the dedication of our cardiac team and shows how charitable support can directly enhance the care we provide. We are incredibly grateful to him and his friends and family for their generous donation.”

Colin’s final message to the team was simple and heartfelt: “I’m lucky to still be here, and that’s thanks to Ward 223. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”

If you would like to fundraise for UHNM Charity visit www.uhnmcharity.org.uk for more information, or call 01782 676444 to speak to one of the UHNM Charity team.