A bereaved family has helped raise £1,270 to support patients at Walsall Manor Hospital, following the care their loved one received at the end of his life.

Megan Wood’s grandad, John Aldridge, died from dementia and old age, aged 82, in the Sister Dora Suite at Walsall Manor Hospital on September 15.

His family were so impressed by the care John received from staff that they decided to take part in a charity walk to raise money for the ward.

Megan said: “My grandad was frightened of falling when he was admitted and was scared, but the staff were amazing and treated him like family.

“He felt a lot calmer after speaking to them and I couldn’t have asked for better care.

“We were able to visit anytime as he was receiving end-of-life care, and the staff helped us every step of the way.

“After he passed away, we wanted to do something to support the ward, so when we heard about the walk, we decided to take part.”

Megan, who works as a Nursing Associate on the Sister Dora Suite, said it was a very different experience to be on the patient and family side of the ward rather than at work.

She added: “It really does feel like a big family there, and the staff have all been so supportive.

“The fundraising was a way of giving something back to the staff who cared for my grandad and supported us during a very difficult time.”

The charity walk, organised by Well Wishers, took place at the weekend and has raised £1,270.

The money will help support the new Sister Dora Suite, including the set-up of a lounge where activities will take place, including a dementia café for patients.

Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager, said: “A huge thank you to everyone who joined the walk, including Megan’s family.

“Some people walked, some jogged, and others took it lap by lap before deciding to keep going and do a little more. Every mile counted.

“It was especially lovely to see so many Sister Dora Suite staff taking part, with colleagues from both day and night shifts coming along to support the cause.

“Thank you to everyone who walked, jogged, supported and cheered us on.”