Health board staff raise over £6500 in honour of colleague diagnosed with terminal cancer

A team of therapists have raised thousands in support of their colleague who has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Area head of occupational therapy for Wrexham and Flintshire, Lesley Cotter has been given the terminal diagnosis due to the development of brain tumours – news which inspired her team to begin a drive to raise money in her honour.

Lesley has worked for the NHS primarily at Wrexham Maelor Hospital since 1986 and is a well-respected occupational therapy leader in Wales.

Over the summer, ‘Lesley’s Ladies’ have been putting in the mileage and participating in various events to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

Occupational therapists, physiotherapists and therapy team managers – along with friends and family of the team – have completed a series of events including the 5k Race for Life in Chester, Alyn Waters 5k and Crystal Palace 10k.

Staff chose to complete 5 and 10 kilometre distance events to honour occupational therapists commitment to breaking down barriers and enabling people to be independent and achieve success in a way that is personal to that individual.

Occupational therapist, Vicky Warburton who led the team at the Chester Racecourse Race for Life said: “It was blisteringly hot on the day but we were so proud because everyone who entered, finished the event.

“The whole team got involved wearing wigs and tutus. The camaraderie was fantastic and there was laughter and smiles.

“We didn’t want to leave anyone out and so some of our male colleagues also came to support us dressed up as female cheerleaders as they were unable to register for female only race.

“We were so pleased that Lesley also made it to the race on the day to cheer us all on and she received lots of rather sweaty hugs on the finish line. We want her to know how much we care.”

Colleague Rupert Leslie spoke of his pride at taking part and supporting Lesley’s Ladies. He said: “The very worst of situations often result in a demonstration of the very best in people.

“We came together on the day for a cause close to everyone’s hearts, mobilising a huge team of support, not only for the charity but for each other too.”

Lesley spoke of her pride in the team. She said “I am immensely proud of all my colleagues, friends and family, who came together to raise monies for a charity that supports the work to beat this horrible disease.”

Anyone wishing to donate to ‘Lesley’s Ladies’ can do so here.