Help for a Hospital

When Trudy Appleby heard of the birth of quintuplets at the Leeds General Infirmary (LGI) in West Yorkshire, England, she was impressed to call the facility. Though four months pregnant herself, Sister Appleby wondered if there was anything she could do to help.

A neonatal specialist mentioned to Sister Appleby, a member of the Leeds Second Ward, Leeds England Stake, that LGI needed two pulse oximeters, machines that take blood measurements and measure other vital signs. Sister Appleby set a goal to raise money for the equipment.

First she talked with ward members, many of whom volunteered their help. With this support, Sister Appleby began organizing several fund-raising events. There was a swimming gala, a canoe race, and other activities. But the culminating event was the Charity Gala Day held at Roundhay Park in Leeds.

The gala lasted all day, and several special guests attended, including the Lord and Lady Mayoress of Leeds, members of parliament, members of the infirmary staff, and several well-known sports figures. There were contests, a “fun run,” entertainment, and other booths. More than half the money needed for the monitoring equipment was raised during the activity.

“This experience really did teach me that one person who is prepared to stand up and take action can make a difference. I’m so grateful that what we’ve done will be able to bless future babies born in the Leeds area,” says Sister Appleby.—Elizabeth Clark, Leeds, England