On Saturday 25 April, 51 courageous participants took on the ‘Big DRI Abseil’, descending the side of the Women’s & Children’s Hospital at Doncaster Royal Infirmary in support of Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) Charity.
Together, participants have already raised over £14,000, with fundraising still continuing, helping to support patients, families and staff across our hospitals.
The event brought together supporters of all ages and backgrounds, each taking part for their own personal reasons and stories. From honouring loved ones to giving back for care received, every participant showed amazing determination as they stepped over the edge of the hospital building.
Scarlett Roberts took part with her Mum, Sheila, to say thank you for the care her Stepdad received. Together they raised over £1,100.
Scarlett said: “Watching someone you love go through serious illness and knowing there’s only so much you can do is incredibly difficult. Doncaster Royal Infirmary has been there for my Stepdad throughout his treatment, from saving his leg in 2019 to supporting him now through kidney failure and dialysis. Taking part in the abseil felt like a way of giving something back to the people and services that continue to care for him every single day and we had great fun taking part.”
Adding to the excitement on the day was special guest Katie Yates from the Doncaster Belles, who bravely completed the abseil and raised an incredible £461 for the charity.
The charity would also like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who helped make the event possible.
Volunteers from Butternut Box provided fantastic support throughout the day, helping the event run smoothly from start to finish. The Rapid Relief Team generously provided food and refreshments for participants and supporters while helping to raise an additional £300 during the event.
Adrian Petts, Head of Charity for Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity said: “The atmosphere throughout the day was absolutely amazing. We are so proud of every single person who took part in the BIG DRI Abseil and grateful to everyone who donated, volunteered and supported the event. The money raised will make a real difference to patients and families across our hospitals.”
The Big DRI Abseil will return on Saturday 17 April 2027, giving even more brave fundraisers the chance to take on the challenge and support the charity. Register online here: https://fundraise.dbthcharity.co.uk/event/view/big-dri-abseil-2027
DBTH Charity would like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part, supported the event or sponsored one of our brave participants.