Matron on the Move: Support Vicky at the London Marathon
A dedicated Paediatric A&E nurse at Croydon University Hospital is embarking on a major fundraising mission to improve the experience of children in emergency care.
Victoria, Matron of Paediatric A&E, sees every day how stressful and intimidating an emergency setting can be for children and their families. Determined to make the environment more welcoming, she is preparing to run a full marathon on 26 April to raise money for vital improvements to the unit.
Last year, Victoria completed a half marathon to support the department. This year, she has set her sights even higher and hopes her marathon effort will help fund new play equipment for the waiting room, treatment spaces and the outdoor play area.
She believes the upgrades will make a meaningful difference to how children feel when they arrive in A&E.
She said: “Even small changes can help children feel calmer and more comfortable while they wait to be seen,” she explained. “A child friendly space helps reduce fear and anxiety at what is often a very stressful time.”
The funds raised will be used to create a more engaging, distraction filled environment designed specifically with young patients in mind.
Victoria is encouraging the community to support her challenge in any way they can.
“Thank you so much for any donation, big or small. It really will make a difference,” she said.
Her marathon fundraising effort aims to ensure that children across Croydon receive not only high-quality clinical care but also a warm, reassuring environment when they need it most.
You can support Victoria by donating to her JustGivng page.
Donate to Croydon Health Services Charity