Freshwater Bay WI members donned red to mark Heart Month and raise funds for a life-saving children’s heart charity.
Everyone certainly saw red at Freshwater Bay WI’s February meeting as members turned out in various shades of the colour to highlight Heart Month and support the Children’s Heart Unit Fund (CHUF).
The charity is based at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle, one of only two child heart transplant centres in the UK. It treats babies and children from across the country – including the grandson of one Freshwater Bay WI member, who received a life-saving heart transplant in November 2023 at just 8 months old.
CHUF provides vital equipment for infants in intensive care, including specially adapted buggies so babies can be taken out of their cots. The charity also funds small comforts and treats for young patients who may spend months – and sometimes years – away from home while undergoing treatment.
A collection taken among the 26 members present on the night raised £120 for the cause.
The meeting also featured a guest talk by Darren Everest, a gold medal winner at the Chelsea Flower Show, who shared highlights from his gardening year – including a memorable conversation with The King about his exhibition sweet peas.
