Louise Paramel and Steph Holmes
A pair of Blackpool Victoria Hospital nurses have raised thousands for charity.
Paediatric Practice Development sisters, Louise Paramel and Steph Holmes, held their first Black Tie and Diamonds Ball, which raised more than £5,500.
The cash will be split between Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust charity, Blue Skies Hospitals Fund for the Vic’s Children’s Ward and DKMS Blood Cancer charity.
Louise said: “Steph I have worked on the children’s unit at Blackpool for many years and during this time they have seen many children and their families go through some really challenging times in relation to many conditions but especially blood cancers.
“We wanted to organise the ball as the Children’s unit and DKMS are charities close to our hearts.”
The Ball included entertainment from AVR Dance Company, Davy D, 99th Garrison Star Wars Group as well as there being a candy cart, photo booth, balloon raffle and a silent auction.
Steph said: “We would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who came to our event.
“It was truly amazing and we hope everyone had a great night. The money we raised will go to improving the care we can give to the children and their families but it will also increase the opportunities for staff development.”
Shafia Begam, Senior Volunteer Manager at DKMS, a blood cancer charity said: “Thanks to Louise and co for organising such a fantastic ball.
“Not only has this helped to raise awareness of blood cancer and the important work we do in recruiting potential blood stem cell donors but it’s raised vital funds to help us recruit more.
“Since volunteering for us Louise has played an instrumental role in helping register potential lifesavers that may help give someone living with blood cancer a second chance of life.
“The funds raised from the evening will help support the financial costs of registering new donors – so thank you again.”
Interim Head of Fundraising, Ann Hedley, said: ‘The ladies have really worked hard to make this wonderful event come to fruition.
“The fact that it’s also supporting two such worthy causes makes it even more worthwhile.
“I’d really like to thank Louise, Steph and all their supporters for thinking of us and turning the grey skies blue for all of our patients, their families and the community.’
If you are aged between 17-55 and in general good health and living in the UK please register to become a potential blood stem cell donor by visiting www.dkms.org.uk