In January 2022 I was admitted to the Walton Centre as an emergency after a scan showed I had a tumour at the top of my spinal chord. Covid restrictions meant I wasn't allowed visitors following admission. I was discharged 10 days later, and got to see my family again. This however was short lived and I was readmitted following complications. Covid restrictions were relaxed part way through my second stay meaning my mum could come and visit each day.

The Walton Centre is a specialist hospital treating patients from the North West, North Wales and the Isle of Man. I was lucky to have such a specialist hospital so close but others aren't meaning they could be away from their families during their stay and that's when Home from Home relatives’ accommodation comes in ensuring families can stay close to loved ones who are undergoing life-saving treatment at The Walton Centre hospital.  

So what can you do to say thank you to a hospital that saved your ability to walk? Well, you can't really because it's a massive task! But I've decided to use my ability to walk to take part in Walk for Walton which will see me walk 100,000 steps this May to raise money for the Home from Home relatives' accommodation. If you would like to sponsor me or donate to this wonderful cause I would be extremely grateful!

Kari Dennis