Money was raised via a fundraising raffle before and during the annual awards ceremony held on July 1, which saw community champions recognised for their hardwork and commitment to the community.
Fen House in Ely has cared for 50 people so far this year who have suffered brain injuries ranging from car accidents, falls, drug and alcohol related medical conditions. They were chosen to be Ely Hero Awards “Charity of the Year” – this has allowed the profile of Fen House to be raised locally and has resulted in other companies pledging their support for the Unit .The money will go towards an outside gym that will help people regain strength and independence.
During the evening, Roxy Rolland, Service Manager at Fen House gave guests an update on how Ely Hero Awards has helped the Unit raise vital funds . Roxy Said “We want people to go into the community and regain their independence which may have been lost due to their injuries.”We want to extend the current gym because physical rehabilitation is a vital part in their progression”. She related how the platform had raised their profile locally and has encouraged other local businesses to pledge their support. Ely Business Awards organised by The Ely Standard Newspaper, Archant Group pledged their support at this years ceremony and raised a fabulous £1445 for Fen House! John Elworthy, Editor of the Ely Standard said “I cannot think of a better local cause to give this to”.
Ely Hero Winner 2019, Alison Fitt, from Soham, presented Roxy and colleagues with the cheque before former patient Hugh Burchett shared his story of recovery at the unit. Hugh, from Cambridge, came into the care of Fen House after having a stroke last year.He said: “When I went to Fen House I could only walk a few steps but I was there for a 12-week period. I began to walk again and by the end of last August I moved back home and went back to work part-time in January. The gym facilities at Fen House would be so worthwhile, especially in the summer, as it would really pay dividends.”
Equipment for the new gym is set to arrive by Christmas, with it set to be fully up and running in the New Year. 27 raffle prizes were donated to this years Ely Hero Awards, with sponsors such as Life Fitness offering their time and help. Mayor Mike Rouse said: “At the heart of the Ely Hero Awards is connecting people and creating awareness of how people enhance the lives of others and their city and own community. Here’s to the hero inside all of us.”
