From Recovery to Generosity: Former Patient, Callum, Raises Thousands to Help Improve Experience for Others

When Callum Laing was recovering from a brain abscess in the Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, he felt something was missing: somewhere comfortable where he could relax away from his room. Wanting to make things better for others, Callum began fundraising from his hospital bed.

Callum launched a JustGiving page during his treatment and, once discharged, later organised a fundraising night in his hometown of Kirkcaldy, supported by local businesses. He has since raised an outstanding £8,363.52, which will go towards creating a more welcoming environment for patients recovering from neurological surgery.

Callum said:

I owe my life to the Royal Infirmary and the DCN especially. The people who work there are a true credit to the NHS and any way in which I can repay them by making their or the patients’ life a little easier. I hope the donation can go some way to doing that.”

Joe Harrison, Senior Charge Nurse, Clinical Neurosciences said:

We can’t thank Callum enough for all he has done. Although finding additional dedicated space in hospital areas is not always possible, there is so much we can do with the money that he has raised to support other patients during their stay. We are looking forward to improving communal areas with new furniture so patients can take a break from their room somewhere comfortable and relaxing. These changes will make a big difference during recovery.”

Tu Edwards, Community and Events Fundraiser at NHS Lothian Charity, also shared her heartfelt thanks:

We are extremely grateful for Callum’s outstanding fundraising efforts. The funds raised will make a meaningful difference—enhancing experiences on our wards, bringing comfort to patients, and creating a calm, welcoming environment where they can focus on recovery during their hospital stay. We cannot thank Callum, and everyone who donated or gave their time, enough for their incredible generosity and support.”

Callum’s commitment hasn’t stopped there. He is currently writing a book about his journey through a brain abscess, multiple operations, and recovery. All proceeds from the book will be donated to NHS Lothian Charity to further support improvements that enhance patient experiences and encourage social connection during recovery at the DCN ward.