Rookwood Spur is a registered charity set up with the ambition of improving the quality of life and opportunities for patients of the Spinal Injuries unit at Rookwood hospital, Llandaff, Cardiff.
The Charity's Aims
To support and enable in a practical way. We work to promote a positive understanding of disability. We do this by supplying the tools to build bridges towards re-adjustment during the long process of rehabilitation.
To provide a range of facilities for patients and their families. Some examples of what SpUR have provided include, a family room within the Unit with laundry/kitchen facilities, a children's play area and computer room. This was without a doubt a massive improvement to the Unit. As well as providing a comfortable place to stay, the privacy provided by such a facility enables patients to grow a sense of independence, an important aspect to rehabilitation.
Other Examples include Specialist equipment to aid patients rehab and digital televisions for patients on bed rest.
SpUR also organises social events for patients families and supporters. These include an annual BBQ at the Mochyn Du pub which is usually around September time. Transport is provided for the patients to and from the unit and relatives are very welcome. Curry/Quiz, Race nights and Christmas parties are also held. Another big event on the SpUR calendar is the Summer Ball. This is a very successfull event and is attended by patients, friends and family, staff and corporate supporters including Hugh James Solicitors and Astra Tech Healthcare to name but a few.
How We Raise Funds
The dedication and hard work of those involved with the charity along with patients, their families and supporters enables SpUR to raise funds in a variety of ways, for example:- sponsored bike rides/wheelchair pushes, sponsored sky dives, social events as described above and raffles. One example of a fundrasing event was a sponsored walk of the Taff Trail from Brecon to Cardiff covering a distance of 55miles. Recently a seven-aside football event was organised by relatives of a Rookwood patient and was attended by football star Gary Lineker.
SpUR Trustee's
Chair:- Mrs S Elford. Treasurer:- Mr M Davison. Secretary:- Mrs L Nicholas
Ms K Coles, Mrs K Jones, Mrs S Causon,Mr A Stephenson
Ms S Carleton, Ms J Kavanagh, Ms Kathryn Evans
Supporters
Patron- Nigel Walker Head Of BBC Sport and ex Wales /Cardiff RFC Rugby player.
Actress- Sian Phillips. MP- Kenin Brennan
TV presenters:- Andrew Jones, Jamie Owen.Presenter, Gary Lineker
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