Basildon nurse steps up for heart patients in Southend‑to‑Basildon walk and 50km challenge
A dedicated nurse from Basildon Hospital is stepping into a major fundraising mission this February – taking on two significant walking challenges to help raise money for improvements that will benefit patients receiving care for heart and lung related conditions.
Shona Perry, a registered nurse in the Cardiothoracic Centre (CTC) at Basildon Hospital, is a mum of three boys who completed her nursing degree while working and raising her family. Despite being very humble around how incredible she is, determination is clearly second nature to her, and this year she’s channelling it into an ambitious fundraising effort.
Her first challenge is a solo walk from Southend Hospital to Basildon Hospital on Sunday 1 February. She’ll then push herself even further by tackling the Kent Downs 50km ultra challenge – a demanding endurance event that will test both physical and mental resilience.
These challenges hold deep personal meaning for Shona. She shared: “Seventeen years ago, my dad passed away from an undiagnosed heart condition. That’s something that’s always stayed with me. I started walking for my own health and stress levels, and over time I came across ultra challenges to see how far I could push myself. I know that working with patients on our Cardiothoracic wards is exactly where I’m supposed to be, and that my experiences have led me here. I’ll do everything I can to give back and to help patients have the best possible experience.”
Later in the year, Shona will also host a Bikeathon in the CTC reception area, inviting colleagues to join 20‑minute cycling slots and enjoy a cake sale to boost donations.
Clair Dade, Community Fundraiser at Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, praised Shona’s passion and commitment, noting that her efforts will make a meaningful difference for patients across the hospitals.
You can support Shona by donating via her JustGiving page or by helping raise awareness of heart health throughout February: