Life-saving team inspires fundraising cycle

Two years ago, Louise Lyle was cared for for six weeks at Warwick Hospital’s intensive therapy unit after being struck by swine flu so badly that her major organs stopped functioning. She had been a fit and healthy woman - but within 24 hours of being admitted to hospital, she had to go on life support.

Now her husband Nick is hoping to raise £1,500 for the unit by cycling from Southam to Paris, as research suggests that this is the amount spent on the unit on average each day.

He said: “We wanted to say thank you for the care they gave Louise. I have always been a keen cyclist and so we thought this was the perfect challenge to gain some support for our local hospital and its excellent, dedicated staff.”

Marian Penny, manager of the unit, said: “We are extremely grateful to Nick and Louise for their ongoing support. We are all really pleased to see Louise recovered and well and supporting Nick throughout his training. Her story really emphasises the importance of receiving the flu vaccination in order to be protected through the winter season.”

Mr Lyle will begin his challenge on May 25. Anyone wishing to sponsor him or businesses able to offer logistical support should visit www.justgiving.com/nick-lyle

Anyone who would like to raise funds for South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital, should call fundraising manager Jacqui Wood on 495321 ext 8049 or email [email protected]