15th Anniversary Buttercup Walk raises over £20,000 with more to come!

Posted by Rebekah Ahmed on 30 June 2017

Hundreds of walkers came out to support The RNOH Charity’s 15^th Anniversary Buttercup Walk, and were treated to a day of sunshine, great music, and delicious food, amongst other attractions.

The walk was led by our amazing 96 year old champion, Mary Tye, whose determination and positivity shone through as she took the first few steps of our one-mile route. Mary, who was treated at the RNOH for a spinal cord injury 8 years ago, was excited to lead to the way saying, ‘You should never let life get you down. Just keep your head held high and focus on what’s important: living life to the full. I want to show other spinal cord-injured patients that if I can do it, then they can too.”

Accompanied by some great live music from local Barnet band, The Rockin’ Bones, the walkers refreshed themselves after their efforts with fresh, handmade juices from the Swig and Filly’s reclaimed vintage horse cart, and relaxed in the sunshine. Younger participants took advantage of Kids and Karts incredible go-kart racing course, and the bouncy castles and mega slide proved as popular as ever.  Stagecoach Harrow and Wealdstone’s Performance Troupe also made an appearance, and the barbecue provided by the RNOH’s very own ISS team rounded the day off.

Rosie Stolarski Fundraising Director of the RNOH Charity said: “The Buttercup Walk has so far raised over £20,000 and monies for sponsorship are still rolling in so we are absolutely delighted! Over 100 entrants took part in the Walk and around 300 people attended the funday and enjoyed the entertainment stalls, live music and of course, the dog show! It was brilliant to see staff, patients and supporters having such a great time and we are looking forward to planning next year's event - so watch this space!"

Peter Calder, consultant orthopaedic surgeon and Buttercup Walk Chairman said: “We are so grateful to everyone who came along to show their support – our inspirational sponsored walkers and all our supporters – from the police and fire brigade who brought their vehicles for our youngsters to explore – to all the staff and volunteers who gave up their Sunday to run stalls and make the day such fun.  The event was a huge success and has raised thousands of pounds to enrich and support patient's experience during their time at the hospital.”

We’d like to say a massive thank you to everyone that gave up their time to volunteer on the day and all those who participated in the walk. We hope to see you all again next year!