Friends of Andy Pickford

Thalia Tewson and 50 friends contributed to a fundraising drive in support of Blundell ward at Guy's where their friend and colleague Andy had an operation to remove an infected Cochlear Implant. Andy was afterwards readmitted to the ward for a new implantation which has proved successful.

Thalia, a Director in Corporate Technologies at American Express and her colleagues in Brighton organised a Christmas quiz and cake sale, as well as a tin for loose change that was shaken at meetings and left in a prominent place for donations. The departmental gift was matched by American Express for a total of £601.87.

Thalia said: "I chose Blundell ward as Andy told me about the great care he was receiving . We wanted to say thank you to all the auxiliary and medical staff who are giving him such great care."

Blundell ward has 35 beds and specialises in ENT and Head and Neck Cancer Surgery. The Friends' funds have been put towards wall mounted manual blood pressure machines for seven isolation rooms, that will be invaluable in caring for and monitoring the progress of very ill patients.

To make a donation or find out how your legacy could help, please use the secure donation form, or contact the Fundraising Team on Tel: 020 7188 7744, e-mail: Fundraising Team.