Local choir supports the tiniest patients with vein finding technology

Thanks to the generosity of Southend-based choir Vocal Ease, a donation made to Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity has proudly funded a specialist AccuVein vein finder for the Neonatal unit at Southend Hospital. The vital piece of equipment is now in use and already making a meaningful difference for the hospital’s tiniest patients.

The donation holds deep personal significance for Lesley Fleming, founder of Vocal Ease, whose grandson Jose-Luka, now 14, received lifesaving care from the neonatal team at Southend Hospital shortly after birth. Born at home with no initial concerns, Jose-Luka was urgently admitted to hospital at just 24 hours old. What was first thought to be severe jaundice was later diagnosed as serious abnormalities with his blood. Under the care of the neonatal team, Jose-Luka required intensive treatment, including multiple blood transfusions.

Recalling that time, Lesley said: “There were many times when we all thought Jose-Luka wouldn’t make it. It was an incredibly worrying time for us all. Our choir is committed to going as far as we can for the neonatal unit – I don’t know how my family and I can possibly thank these incredible people for saving his life.”

The handheld AccuVein device, which uses near-infrared technology to illuminate veins beneath the skin, allows clinicians to identify veins quickly and accurately. In neonatal care, where babies’ veins can be exceptionally small and fragile, this technology is invaluable in reducing the number of attempts needed to take blood samples or insert cannulas – making procedures gentler for babies and much less distressing for parents.

Costing £2,514.50, the device has been warmly welcomed by staff on the Neonatal Unit. Jen Foster, Neonatal Ward Manager at Southend Hospital, explained the impact of the new equipment:

“For our neonatal babies, every procedure matters. Vein finders allow us to find veins much more easily, which reduces discomfort for our babies and limits the stress of repeated attempts. It also eases the worry for parents who understandably find it distressing to see their tiny newborn having a cannula fitted or blood taken. We’re incredibly grateful to Vocal Ease and their founder, Lesley Fleming, whose generous support has enabled us to have this technology, helping us work more efficiently while providing the gentle, compassionate care every baby deserves.”

Since 2009, Vocal Ease has been a longstanding supporter of the local NHS hospitals charity, hosting regular concerts which have collectively raised over £15,000 for Southend Hospital’s Neonatal Unit. This latest donation is a reflection of both the choir’s ongoing commitment and the lasting impact of the care provided to families like Lesley’s.