NTLA’s generous donation to Southend Renal unit brings comfort to patients and staff

The North Thameside Ladies Auxiliary (NTLA), a group of former pub landladies (plus their one valued and longstanding male member, Charlie Horne), continues to make a remarkable impact in the local community. Known for their tireless fundraising efforts, the NTLA has long supported various departments at Southend Hospital, and their latest donation is no exception.

The group recently donated essential kitchen equipment to the hospital’s Renal unit, which provides life-saving dialysis treatment to patients who would otherwise be facing kidney failure. The items, which include a dishwasher and fridge, will benefit not only the patients who spend hours on the unit multiple times a week but also over fifty hardworking staff members who provide care to dialysis patients on a daily basis.

Samantha MacDonald, Counselling Psychotherapist on the Renal unit and an NTLA member, nominated the Renal unit as a cause worth supporting. “I’m passionate about raising awareness and offering as much support as possible to renal patients,” Samantha said. “What they go through every week is incredibly tough, and it’s easy to overlook just how invasive and life-altering dialysis can be. Weekly appointments take a toll on their quality of life, and I want to continue supporting them and the staff who work tirelessly with them.”

Patsy Dumsay, Chairlady of the NTLA, echoed Samantha’s sentiments. “We’ve supported many areas of Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity over the years, and we always strive to help our local community,” she shared. “There are so many deserving causes, but Samantha’s nomination really resonated with us. Two of our own members are dialysis patients, so we understand just how much of an impact treatment has on their lives.”

The donation will go a long way in improving the daily experiences of renal patients. Jenny Pym, Matron of the Renal unit, expressed her gratitude: “We are so thankful for the generous donation. It will make a real difference in helping us provide a more comfortable environment for our patients.”

For the NTLA, this is just one of many acts of kindness that demonstrate their unwavering commitment to supporting the local community.