The specialist centre, which is jointly run by Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust and Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, has been providing planned orthopaedic surgery for patients across South Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire since opening in January 2024.
One of those patients was 76-year-old Janet Bell, who underwent the milestone operation after being offered a total knee replacement at short notice following a cancellation.
She said: “Everything moved very fast, but I had nothing to worry about – the team were amazing with me. They reassured me and talked me through everything.”
Having previously worked at Bassetlaw Hospital as an oncology nurse before retiring, Janet said being on the other side of care felt unusual.
She added: “I was kept informed and pain-free, and staff couldn’t do enough for me. When my knee had a flare up, one of my surgeons actually rang me to see how I was doing.”
Since her surgery, Janet has noticed a significant improvement in her mobility and a considerable reduction in arthritic pain.
Alongside completing more than 1,000 joint replacements, the centre has also achieved national Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Accreditation.
GIRFT is a national NHS improvement programme that recognises services delivering high standards of patient care, safety and clinical practice while helping to reduce variation and share best practice across the NHS.
Ellie Samways, Business Manager for MEOC, said: “These achievements are a huge reflection of the dedication, professionalism and teamwork shown by colleagues across MEOC every single day.
“Completing more than 1,000 joint replacement procedures so soon after opening demonstrates the positive impact the centre is already having for patients across South Yorkshire.
“Achieving GIRFT Accreditation recognises the high standards of care, safety and patient experience our teams consistently deliver, and I am incredibly proud of everyone who has contributed to MEOC’s success so far.”
Ahead of the accreditation assessment, colleagues prepared a detailed evidence portfolio demonstrating how the centre met the required standards.
The visiting team from NHS England praised the enthusiasm, professionalism and commitment shown by colleagues across the wards, theatres and administration teams.
Denise Smith, Chief Operating Officer at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, said: “MEOC has become an excellent example of what can be achieved through strong partnership working and a continued focus on delivering outstanding patient care.
“These milestones reflect the hard work and commitment of colleagues from across all three partner organisations who have worked together to create a service that is improving outcomes and experiences for orthopaedic patients across the areas we serve.”
Since opening in 2024, the centre has continued to expand its services and workforce, helping more patients across South Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire receive planned orthopaedic surgery and supporting people to regain their mobility and quality of life.
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The works are expected to last for three working days.
During this time, parking will be temporarily suspended in the affected section of road and there may be some restrictions to vehicle access in the immediate area. Pedestrian access will be maintained wherever possible.
The works are being carried out by Northern Powergrid’s contractor, OCU Utility Services, and are expected to cause minimal disruption. However, if you are travelling to or from Doncaster Royal Infirmary, please allow a little extra time for your journey and avoid parking in the signed and coned-off area.
Thank you for your patience while these essential improvements to the local electricity network are completed.
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George and Sabrina Thompson, alongside George’s brothers and sisters, will complete the 24-mile trek to give back to the unit that has cared for their baby daughter, Margaret.
Margaret was born eight weeks early at DRI, weighing just 5lb 5oz. She was diagnosed with Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and a significant heart condition: Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD).
Now four months old, she continues to show remarkable strength as she recovers from open-heart surgery.
George and his family say their experience has highlighted the exceptional care provided by the neonatal team at Doncaster: “Before this journey, we never truly realised just how incredible the staff working within our neonatal intensive care units are.
“The doctors, nurses and support staff have shown us nothing but compassion, kindness and unwavering support during the most emotional and challenging time of our lives.”
The fundraiser is being held in aid of the Mini Marvels Appeal, which supports improvements to neonatal facilities, equipment and the environment for babies and their families.
Having also spent time in another neonatal unit shortly after Margaret was born, the family hope the funds raised will help enhance facilities at Doncaster, including family rooms and staff areas, creating a more comfortable and supportive environment during an incredibly difficult time.
Sarah Dunning, Fundraising Manager at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Margaret’s family for their support and fundraising efforts. Their decision to give back in recognition of the care they’ve received is truly appreciated. These vital funds will help enhance patient and family facilities within our neonatal unit, which play such an important role during what can be a very stressful and emotional time.”
Thanks to the generosity of supporters, they have already raised over £2,500 of their £5,000 fundraising target.
George added: “This unit deserves the very best. Every day, the team works tirelessly to care for the most vulnerable babies and support families like ours. This is our way of saying thank you and helping to make a difference for others.”
Supporters are encouraged to donate or share the fundraiser to help the family reach their target. Every contribution, no matter the size, will go towards supporting babies, families and colleagues within the neonatal service.
To support the family’s fundraiser or find out more, visit: https://fundraise.dbthcharity.co.uk/fundraisers/georgewilliamthompson
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Martha’s Rule is a national NHS patient safety initiative designed to ensure that concerns about deterioration are listened to, escalated and reviewed in a timely way.
The initiative gives patients, relatives, carers and staff access to a rapid review process if they feel a patient’s condition is worsening and concerns raised with the clinical team have not been fully addressed.
Support through Martha’s Rule is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ensuring concerns can be escalated at any time, day or night.
Information explaining how Martha’s Rule can be used is now available across Trust sites, including ward posters and patient information materials, helping patients and families understand what to do if they are worried about a patient’s condition.
Patients, carers and families are always encouraged to speak to the nurse in charge or clinical team first. However, Martha’s Rule provides an additional route to request an urgent review where concerns remain.
Dr Nick Mallaband, Chief Medical Officer at DBTH, said: “Martha’s Rule strengthens our commitment to listening and responding when patients, families and carers are worried about a patient’s condition.
“We know that those closest to a patient often notice important changes, and this initiative ensures there is a clear and timely way for concerns to be escalated and reviewed, day or night.
“At DBTH, we want everyone to feel confident that their concerns will be taken seriously and acted upon quickly, helping us to provide safe, responsive and compassionate care for all patients.”
Martha’s Rule is named in memory of Martha Mills, who died in 2021 aged 13 after developing sepsis while in hospital. The initiative has been introduced nationally by NHS England to strengthen the early recognition and escalation of deterioration.
Further information about Martha’s Rule, including how to request an urgent review at any time, is available on the Trust website and through information displayed across hospital wards and departments. Visit: www.dbth.nhs.uk/marthas-rule
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More than 40 candidates are standing for election to the Trust’s Council of Governors, which helps ensure the views of patients, local communities and colleagues are represented within the organisation.
DBTH has more than 13,000 Foundation Trust members. Membership is free and open to anyone aged 16 or over, allowing local people to receive information about the Trust, attend member events, stand for election as a Governor and vote in Governor elections.
This year’s elections will appoint:
- Six Public Governors representing Doncaster.
- Two Public Governors representing Bassetlaw.
- One Public Governor representing the Rest of England and Wales.
- Four Staff Governors, representing the Trust’s Non-clinical, Nursing and Midwifery, Other Healthcare Professionals, and Medical and Dentistry colleague groups.
DBTH serves a population of more than 440,000 people across South Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire and surrounding areas, employs more than 7,300 colleagues and provides services from hospital sites in Doncaster, Bassetlaw and Mexborough.
The Council of Governors is made up of elected public and colleague representatives, alongside appointed partner Governors.
Working alongside the Trust’s Board of Directors, Governors help ensure the organisation remains accountable to the communities it serves by holding the Non-Executive Directors to account for the performance of the Board, representing the interests of members and helping to shape the Trust’s future.
Mark Bailey, Chair of the Board at DBTH, said: “Our Governors play an important role in representing the views of the communities we serve, and it is encouraging to see so many people putting themselves forward for election this year.
“I would encourage every eligible member to take a few moments to read the candidates’ statements and cast their vote. By taking part, you will help decide who represents your community and supports the future direction of your local NHS.”
Eligible Foundation Trust members are encouraged to check their inbox for an email from the Trust’s independent election provider, Civica Election Services, sent from takepart@cesvotes.com, which contains instructions on how to vote securely online.
Voting closes at 5pm on Wednesday 15 July 2026, with the successful candidates announced shortly afterwards.
Find out more about membership at https://www.dbth.nhs.uk/about-us/become-a-member/.
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The interactive event welcomed students from schools across the city for a unique, hands-on introduction to more than 150 careers within the NHS and care sector, helping young people learn about future career opportunities ahead of choosing their GCSE options.
Now in its sixth year in Doncaster, We Care Into the Future takes young people on a fully simulated hospital journey, from ambulance arrival through to discharge, while giving them the opportunity to meet professionals from across health and care at around 50 interactive stands.
Students explored careers spanning nursing, medicine, engineering, estates, digital, research, finance, therapy and pathology.
Attention now turns to the fourth Bassetlaw event, which takes place at Worksop College later this week, where hundreds more students will take part. Across both events, close to 2,000 Year 8 students are expected to participate this year.
Since launching in 2018, We Care Into the Future has inspired thousands of young people to consider careers in health and care. Many early participants are now studying at college or university, completing apprenticeships or beginning careers within the NHS and wider care sector, with ambitions that may have first been sparked through the programme.
This year also marks an important milestone for the initiative. Following the Bassetlaw event, a total of 10 We Care Into the Future events will have been delivered across Doncaster and Bassetlaw.
Professor Sam Debbage, Director of Education and Research at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, said: “Every year we see the enthusiasm and curiosity of the young people who come through our doors, and this year has been our biggest and most inspiring yet. The continued support from schools, partners and, most importantly, the young people themselves demonstrate just how valuable this programme has become.
“We Care Into the Future is about opening minds to the sheer breadth of careers available across health and care. It helps young people understand that whatever their interests or strengths, there is likely to be a role where they can make a real difference to people’s lives. We’re incredibly proud of what the programme has achieved over the last seven years.”
Zoe Lintin, Chief People Officer at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, said: “Events like this are about investing in the future of our workforce. By giving young people meaningful experiences and opportunities to meet colleagues from across the NHS and care, we’re helping them imagine themselves working in careers they may never have previously considered.
“I’d like to thank every colleague, volunteer, school and partner organisation who has helped make this year’s event such a success. Their enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to inspire the next generation is what makes We Care Into the Future such a special programme.
“Events like this are only possible thanks to the support of our partners and the generosity of those who support Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity. Continued charitable funding is essential if we are to inspire future generations in the years ahead.”
We Care Into the Future has become a model now replicated in other parts of the country, recognised for its engaging approach to early careers education and its success in helping young people understand the breadth of opportunities available across health and care.
If you would like to help support the future delivery of We Care Into the Future, donations can be made through Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity. To find out more, please visit: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/
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The Star Awards are the Trust’s annual celebration of the colleagues and teams whose dedication, compassion and professionalism make a difference every day to patients, families and local communities.
The awards will take place in October 2026 at Doncaster Dome.
Anyone who has received care, visited one of the Trust’s hospitals or been supported by its services is invited to nominate the individuals and teams who have made a real difference to them, recognising those who have had a positive impact on their care or experience.
Members of the public can submit nominations in the following categories:
Patient Champion: Recognising a clinical colleague who consistently delivers compassionate, high-quality care and puts patients at the heart of everything they do.
Fundraising Champion: Recognising someone who has dedicated their time and effort to supporting the Trust’s charity through fundraising activities.
Clinical Team of the Year: Recognising a high-performing clinical team that works together to deliver exceptional care.
Corporate Team of the Year: Recognising a non-clinical team whose work plays a vital role in supporting patients, colleagues and the delivery of high-quality healthcare.
Mark Bailey, Chair of the Board at DBTH, said: “Every day, our colleagues make a difference to the lives of patients and families across our communities. We know that some of the most meaningful feedback comes from those who have experienced our care first-hand.
“By inviting nominations from the public, we are giving local people the opportunity to recognise the individuals and teams who have made a lasting impact on them. Whether it is a kind gesture, exceptional care during a difficult time, or a team that went above and beyond, we want to hear those stories.”
Nominations are now open and can be submitted online by visiting the Trust’s website: https://www.dbth.nhs.uk/news/star-awards-2026/ Entries close at 5pm on Monday 13 July 2026.
The Trust is also inviting local businesses and organisations to support this year’s Star Awards through sponsorship.
Sponsoring an award provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of NHS colleagues while demonstrating a commitment to supporting local healthcare and the communities served by the Trust. Further information about sponsorship opportunities is available online.
To submit a nomination or sponsor the awards, visit https://www.dbth.nhs.uk/news/star-awards-2026/.
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Please note, nominations are now closed.
Our annual Star Awards celebrate the incredible colleagues and teams who provide outstanding care and support across Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals. The awards recognise the people who go above and beyond every day to make a positive difference for patients, families, visitors and colleagues.
The 2026 Star Awards will take place in early October.
Whether you received excellent care, experienced an act of kindness, or were supported by someone who made a difficult time a little easier, we’d love to hear your story and for you to nominate colleagues and teams.
The event is funded entirely through the generous support of local sponsors and income generated through the DBTH Staff Lottery, meaning no NHS funding used for patient care is spent on the awards.
Why your nomination matters
Healthcare is about people.
Every day, thousands of colleagues across our hospitals support patients and families through some of the most important moments of their lives. Whether it’s delivering exceptional clinical care, offering reassurance during difficult times, providing outstanding support behind the scenes or simply showing kindness when it matters most, these moments deserve to be recognised.
Your nomination helps us celebrate those individuals and teams whose dedication has made a real difference. It tells them that their compassion, professionalism and commitment have been noticed and appreciated.
Sometimes, a simple thank you can mean more than you realise.
Award categories
Members of the public can nominate individuals or teams in the following categories:
Patient Champion
For a clinical colleague who consistently puts patients first, providing exceptional care with compassion, professionalism and pride. Click here to make your nomination.
Fundraising Champion
For an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to supporting our hospitals through fundraising for DBTH Charity. Click here to make your nomination.
Clinical Team of the Year
For a clinical team that has worked together to deliver outstanding patient care, demonstrating compassion, teamwork and excellence. Click here to make your nomination.
Corporate Team of the Year
For a non-clinical team whose work plays a vital role in supporting patients, colleagues and the delivery of high-quality healthcare. Click here to make your nomination.
Support the Star Awards
The DBTH Star Awards are made possible through the generous support of local businesses and organisations.
By sponsoring an award, organisations help us celebrate the remarkable colleagues and teams who care for our communities every day while demonstrating their commitment to supporting local NHS services.
If you work for, or know of, a business that may be interested in sponsoring the 2026 Star Awards, we’d be delighted to hear from them.
Find out more about becoming a Star Awards sponsor here: https://www.dbth.nhs.uk/news/sponsor-the-dbth-star-awards-2026/
Submit your nomination
If a colleague or team made a real difference to your experience, we’d love to hear about it.
Every nomination helps us recognise the extraordinary people who care for our patients, support our families and serve our communities every single day.
To make your nomination please visit this short form: https://forms.office.com/e/198k5kwyqG
Thank you for helping us celebrate the people who make Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals such a special place to receive care.
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From delivering lifesaving care to offering support behind the scenes, the event shines a light on those who live the DBTH Way – showing compassion, pride and dedication every day.
With help from local sponsors, we’re able to recognise these incredible colleagues and offer businesses a unique chance to stand proudly alongside their NHS.
A note from the Chair
Following a truly memorable evening in 2025, I’m delighted to announce the return of our annual Star Awards in 2026 – a heartfelt celebration of the remarkable people who make up Team DBTH.
Last year’s event was a fantastic occasion, bringing together colleagues, partners and supporters to recognise the dedication, compassion and professionalism that make Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals such a special place. It was an evening full of pride, emotion and well-deserved recognition, celebrating the people who make a difference every single day.
From the midwives helping to welcome new life into the world, to the porters, cleaners, nurses, therapists, doctors and countless others who support patients and families across Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Bassetlaw Hospital, Montagu Hospital and our community services, the Star Awards are our opportunity to say thank you.
They celebrate those who bring the DBTH Way to life through their commitment, kindness and excellence, often without seeking recognition.
The Star Awards return in early October 2026, and we’re inviting local businesses and organisations to be part of this very special evening.
By sponsoring an award, you’ll help us give our colleagues the celebration they so richly deserve. It’s also an opportunity to demonstrate your support for the NHS, connect your organisation with one of the region’s most respected employers, and gain valuable recognition across our communications channels.
Thank you for helping us celebrate the incredible colleagues of Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals.
Mark Bailey
Chair of the Board
Available sponsorship packages
Sponsoring the Star Awards is a meaningful way to show your support for the NHS and help us recognise the incredible colleagues working across Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Bassetlaw Hospital and Montagu Hospital.
Whether you’re a local business, organisation or individual, your support will help us host a memorable evening of celebration – thanking those who care for our communities with compassion, professionalism and pride.
Each package offers a unique opportunity to align your brand with one of the most anticipated events in our Trust calendar, while reaching thousands of people through our print, digital and in-person channels.
Explore the sponsorship options below and join us in shining a spotlight on the everyday heroes of Team DBTH.
Award Sponsors
We are asking for sponsorship of £1,000 per award. Your support will help us purchase engraved trophies, cover the cost of a three-course dinner for our shortlisted nominees and their guests, and enhance the overall experience with entertainment on the night – making it a truly special occasion for those who go above and beyond for others every day.
In return, sponsoring an award offers excellent exposure across our internal and external channels:
- Editorial and logo branding in our two weekly newsletters and Members’ magazine – together reaching between 3,000 and 4,000 readers per week, drawn from our 7,000-strong workforce.
- Acknowledgement and promotion via the Trust’s website (which receives over two million visits annually) and our social media channels, with a reach of over 2.5 million via the Trust’s Facebook page each month.
- Visibility in our highly active internal Facebook group, with more than 7,000 engaged members.
- An opportunity to host an awareness stand in the venue foyer on the night of the event.
- Two complimentary tickets to attend the ceremony and celebrate alongside our nominees and leaders.
- Your logo featured on presentation screens during the event and in the printed Star Awards 2026 programme.
- Branding included in post-event ‘Winners’ coverage and in press releases related to your sponsored category.
This is a fantastic opportunity to stand alongside your local NHS, support our healthcare heroes, and showcase your brand at one of the most anticipated events in the Trust’s calendar.
- Click here to sponsor an award.
Drinks Sponsor
We are inviting sponsorship of £750 for the exclusive opportunity to be our Welcome Drink Sponsor at the 2026 Star Awards.
Your support will help us provide a celebratory welcome drink for our guests as they arrive – setting the tone for an evening dedicated to recognising the incredible colleagues who care for our communities with compassion, professionalism and pride.
In return, you’ll receive:
- Coverage on the Trust website and social media platforms, with a reach of over 2.5 million via the Trust’s Facebook page each month.
- Visibility in our internal communications, including our active staff Facebook group with over 7,000 members.
- The opportunity to host an awareness stand in the venue foyer on the night.
- Two complimentary tickets to attend the awards ceremony and celebrate alongside nominees and leaders from across the Trust.
- Branding displayed around the venue on signage highlighting that the welcome drink is “Kindly provided by…” your organisation.
This is a unique way to associate your brand with a feel-good NHS celebration, make a memorable first impression, and show your appreciation for the heroes of Team DBTH.
- Click here to register your interest in this package.
Associate Sponsor
We are inviting sponsorship of £2,000 for the prestigious role of Associate Sponsor of the 2026 Star Awards.
Your support will help us fund the venue for this special evening – and in recognition, the event will be promoted under your name as: DBTH Star Awards 2026, in association with [Your Company Name]
As Associate Sponsor, you will receive our most prominent promotional package, including:
- Editorial and logo branding in our Trust newsletters and Members’ magazine, reaching between 3,000 and 4,000 readers each week.
- High-impact promotion on the Trust’s website and social media platforms, with a reach of over 2.5 million via the Trust’s Facebook page each month.
- Visibility in our internal communications, including our Facebook group with more than 7,000 engaged members.
- A dedicated awareness stand in the venue foyer on the evening of the awards.
- Five complimentary tickets to attend the ceremony and celebrate with nominees and senior leaders from across the Trust.
- Logo displayed on presentation screens, boards, and menu stands throughout the venue.
- A printed advert in the official Star Awards 2026 programme.
- Branding featured in the Trust’s post-event ‘Winners’ coverage.
- A full-page advert on the back of the printed menu at each table.
- Your logo featured on the host’s lectern for the evening.
- Opportunity to promote staff discounts or special offers via our internal communications.
This is the perfect opportunity for a business or organisation that wants to stand out, align with the values of the NHS, and play a key role in recognising the extraordinary efforts of those who care for our communities.
- Click here to register your interest in this package.
Award categories
Each of the following categories celebrates the people and teams who help make Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals a great place to work and receive care. From those on the front line to those behind the scenes, these awards recognise colleagues who go above and beyond, live the DBTH Way, and make a real difference to patients, visitors, and one another.
Each category is available to sponsor using the links below – a fantastic opportunity for local organisations, businesses, and individuals to show their support for NHS heroes, gain recognition at one of our biggest events of the year, and be part of something truly special.
Star of the Year 2026: This award recognises an exceptional colleague who has truly gone above and beyond in their role. They consistently exemplify the DBTH Way – showing kindness, taking pride in their work, and always striving to deliver the best possible care or service. A role model for Team DBTH. Click here to sponsor.
Medical and Clinical Team of the Year 2026: Awarded to a team delivering consistently high-quality clinical care, or one on a journey of improvement. The winners will demonstrate strong teamwork and a shared commitment to putting patients first. Click here to sponsor.
Corporate Team of the Year 2026: This award recognises excellence among our administrative, support and facilities teams – from those delivering corporate and technical services to those in non-clinical patient-facing roles. These teams embody the DBTH Way by enabling high-quality care behind the scenes. Click here to sponsor.
Patient Champion: Awarded to a colleague who goes above and beyond for our patients, showing care, compassion and pride in their work every day. Click here to sponsor.
Unsung Hero: For someone whose impact may go unnoticed by patients or the public, but whose contributions are vital. This award celebrates the quiet excellence that supports our services and colleagues. Click here to sponsor.
Learner of the Year: Recognising a colleague who embraces learning and development – whether through formal education, upskilling, or gaining new experiences. A champion of continuous improvement. Click here to sponsor.
Team Spirit Award: This award celebrates someone who lifts those around them – a colleague who champions wellbeing, values equality and diversity, and is always there when you need them. A role model for the supportive culture we’re building at DBTH. Click here to sponsor.
Change Champion: For an individual or team who has led the way in transforming how we work. Whether improving patient outcomes, driving efficiencies, saving money, or boosting morale – this award recognises innovation and positive change. Click here to sponsor.
Teaching Hospital Award: Presented to someone who supports others to learn and grow at DBTH. Whether an official mentor or an informal teacher, they inspire, encourage and share knowledge – helping us live up to our name as a teaching hospital. Click here to sponsor.
Fundraising Champion: A thank you to a colleague or supporter who has gone the extra mile to raise funds for our charity, supporting improvements to care, services and experience at DBTH. Click here to sponsor.
Sustainability Champion: For someone who has introduced or championed an initiative to make DBTH greener. This award recognises those who take action for the planet and for the long-term future of the Trust. Click here to sponsor.
Health Inequalities Champion: This award celebrates work to address health inequalities – whether improving access, experience, or outcomes for underserved or disadvantaged communities. A commitment to fairness and inclusion that reflects the very best of the DBTH Way. Click here to sponsor.
How to sponsor
If you are interested in sponsoring, please fill in your details below and a member of the team will be in touch. Alternatively, if you have any questions, please call 01302 644244.
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Rachel Hargreaves, who lived in ‘pain and discomfort’ with Crohn’s disease since 1997, completed an incredible 275 miles of walking across August and September last year, raising £1,677 for the stoma department at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH).
Rachel, who remained in hospital for five and a half weeks, said: “The care I received from Mr Beral, his team and the staff on ward S10 was amazing.”
However, coming to terms with the prospect of surgery was an uncomfortable journey, Rachel explained.
She said: “For many years I normalised the pain and discomfort associated with my symptoms.
“I stubbornly avoided any talk of a surgical option.”
Finally deciding to take the plunge, Rachel spoke to a surgeon and understood the gravity of her situation.
She said: “I was at risk of becoming an emergency case.”
Although initially ‘petrified’ by the prospect of surgery, Rachel underwent a successful operation performed by Mr Beral in November 2024, which involved the removal of a section of her small bowel and the formation of an ileostomy.
The decision was life-changing, Rachel explained.
She said: “I feel better than I have in 28 years.”
“The care and support I have received from the stoma nurses has been inspirational. Their patience, guidance and motivation have been a vital part of my recovery and learning to live with my stoma.
“The encouragement to give my stoma a name was an enormous help in coming to terms with my ileostomy. ‘Zebedee’ is part of me and we make a great team.”
Determined to give something back, Rachel initially planned a sponsored five-mile walk around Clumber Park.
The challenge quickly grew into a two-month walking campaign, combining daily walks of at least three miles with longer routes around Clumber and Daneshill Lakes, as well as sections of the Cleveland Way coastal path.
By the end of September, Rachel had completed an impressive 275 miles and raising £1,677 for the team who cared for her.
She added: “Once I came to terms with the situation, I realised what a positive step I had taken.
Rachel is now a proud advocate for the benefits of a stoma and is keen to ‘break down the stigma’ surrounding them.
She continued: “Having a stoma doesn’t stop me doing anything.
“I now feel like doing more because I realise how much I had been compromising my life before.”
“The challenge gave me a positive focus every day and provided an opportunity to raise awareness of stomas. I think it’s really important to break down the stigma that some people still associate with them.”
Rachel also highlighted the physical and mental wellbeing benefits she experienced through walking during her recovery.
She said: “Not only have I raised funds for the stoma department, but I have become stronger and fitter and really appreciate the mindful benefits of walking.”
The funds raised will help support the stoma department at Doncaster Royal Infirmary and enhance care for future patients.
Alana Balshaw, Colorectal Cancer Nurse Specialist within the Colorectal and Stoma Care Department at DBTH, said: “Rachel’s story is a true example of resilience and determination. Recovering from major surgery is a huge challenge and Rachel turned her experience into something incredibly positive by raising funds and awareness for the stoma team that supported her throughout her journey.
“We are extremely grateful for her fundraising efforts and for sharing her story so openly. Her support will help us continue providing excellent care for patients and their families.”
The team hopes to use the funds raised by Rachel towards educational resources for staff training days.
Rachel paid tribute to the stoma nursing team who supported her recovery, saying: “Thank you so much for the inspiration and a new lease of life. Three cheers for Cath, Mandy, Liz, Keeley, Sharon, Alana, Debbie, Leah, Becky and Caroline for the amazing job they do.”
About DBTH Charity:
Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals’ Charity is the official charity which supports Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Trust to go above and beyond by providing additional equipment, services and amenities for our patients, visitors and staff which cannot be funded by the NHS alone.
These additional extras would not be possible without the support of our community. With your help, we can continue to work with our Trust to fund innovative and exciting projects that make a difference to our patients, their families and our colleagues who care for them.
Visit the charity website to find out more: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/
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