Haworth shopkeepers raise funds for patients at Airedale Hospital

Tuesday, 12 October 2021 09:07

L-R Jodie Hearnshaw, Anne Shipley, Ken Shipley, Rita Verity, Sally Fielding, Pam Howorth

Various shopkeepers from Haworth have come together to raise money to create 100 individual toiletry packs for patients at Airedale Hospital.

The shop owners raised £600 to fund 100 packs to donate to Airedale and 100 to Harrogate. The packs contain a toothbrush, comb, shower gel, shaving kit, body lotion, soap, shampoo and conditioner.

Rita, who owns a shop called Sonia’s Smile, came up with the idea. Rita recently had a knee replacement operation at Airedale and suffered a heart attack. She was then transferred to Harrogate District Hospital where she spent some time on ICU.

Rita Verity, owner of Sonia’s Smile in Haworth, said:

“Whilst I was on a ventilator and unable to speak, I overheard a conversation between two nurses about trying to fundraise for some toiletries… Once I was able to communicate, I mentioned that I overheard and offered to help.

“I’m thrilled and grateful that it came together so well and trust that these care packages are useful and bring a little comfort to other patients.”

After her experiences in hospital, Rita wanted to say thanks to the staff that cared for her and help other patients by providing individual toiletry bags.

Jodie Hearnshaw, Airedale Charity Manager, met Rita and the Haworth shopkeepers to pick up the toiletry packs along with Sally Fielding, ICU Staff Nurse from Harrogate District Hospital.

Jodie Hearnshaw, Charity Manager at Airedale Hospital and Community Charity, said:

“The packs are now in the dignity room at Airedale, ready for staff to pick up for patients in need.

“Thank you to Rita and the other shop owners in Haworth for such a thoughtful idea. It will make a huge difference to our patients.”

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