10 June 2024

Maureen’s Story: Giving back by taking part in the NHS Big Tea

Tagged by

The NHS Big Tea event isn’t just about brewing tea; it’s about brewing community support for a cause close to the heart. Today we are sharing the heartfelt story of one of our supporters who decided to give back in a meaningful way.

Photo of a garden with a marquees. People are walking around looking at the NHS Big Tea stalls and chatting.
Maureen NHS Big Tea 1

In the past seven years, I’ve had tremendous support from the NHS during some tough health challenges. I’ve had two major surgeries for ovarian and colon cancer, both detected early and promptly treated by the NHS. Throughout my journey, I’ve received incredible support from healthcare professionals, community nurses and specialists. So, when I heard about the NHS Big Tea event, I knew I wanted to give back.


“I’m a planner by nature, so I dove into organising the event with meticulous detail. I enlisted the help of family and friends to ensure everything ran smoothly, from serving tea to managing stalls.


“On the day of the event, the community turned out in force, enjoying homemade cakes and browsing plant stalls. It was heartwarming to see so many people come together to support such an important cause.

Maureen


“Thanks to the generosity of my family and friends, we raised a significant amount, surpassing my expectations. It was truly a rewarding experience, and I couldn’t have done it without the support of my loved ones.


“The event wasn’t just about fundraising; it was a lovely way to connect and catch up with family and friends. We even spent some time talking about each of our positive experiences with the NHS.


Reflecting on the day, I’m overwhelmed by the support and generosity of my friends and family. The event was a reminder of the importance of coming together to support our vital healthcare services. It was a wonderful experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back to those who have given me so much.”

From the everyday to the transformational, NHS Lothian Charity supports NHS Lothian to deliver outstanding care throughout the full healthcare journey and across all health conditions. Whether that’s a more relaxing waiting area, specialist equipment to advance treatment or activities to support recovery, together, we make healthcare better for everyone.

If you’d like to show your appreciation to our NHS, take part in the NHS Big Tea. Every cuppa makes a difference, so, grab your teapot, pop the kettle on and let’s get brewing!

Read more about our amazing fundraisers and what inspired them to give something back

Amy Young, NHS Lothian Charity Fundraiser, presenting a check to REDU, St John's

Amy’s story – Why I wanted to raise money and say thank you to the Regional Eating Disorders Unit team who saved my life

Amy Young struggled for years with a combination of bulimia, anorexia and over-exercise. As Amy continues with her recovery, she […]

Read more
Andrew presents a cheque to NHS Lothian staff at Edinburgh Cancer Centre

Andrew’s Story: Overcoming Challenges, Giving Back and Climbing to New Heights

After receiving exceptional care during his cancer treatment, Andrew Baillie decided to give back, and raise money for NHS Lothian […]

Read more
ArtsGillReidAzureFeatured

Gill’s Story – The Power of Art in Creating Memories and Connections in Difficult Times

Hospitals can be stressful environments for patients and their families and art can provide a focus, a distraction, and a […]

Read more
Lorna Forsyth and her daughters meeting Santa during the annual FACE visit to Lapland at Christmas to support families who have been impacted by cancer

Lorna’s Story – Supporting Families Impacted By Cancer

Fighting Against Cancer Edinburgh (FACE) is one of our cancer funds based at the Edinburgh Cancer Centre of the Western […]

Read more
Alan stood smiling at the camera next to his wife Flora

Alan and Flora’s Story – Leaving A Gift In Your Will

After you have taken care of your family, remembering any of NHS Lothian’s hospitals in your will ensures that we […]

Read more
NHS Lothian Charity Supporter Pamela Graham on holiday in Interlaken

Pamela’s Story: How a donation in memory of a loved one is helping improve experiences for patients living with cancer

Pamela Graham was a wife, mother of two daughters, and a qualified Sonographer, who dedicated her career to the NHS […]

Read more
Michaelagh Broadbent and her sons during the FACE annual trip to Lapland to support families impacted by cancer.

Michaelagh’s Story – Supporting Families Impacted By Cancer

Fighting Against Cancer Edinburgh (FACE) is one of our cancer funds based at the Edinburgh Cancer Centre of the Western […]

Read more