Posted on: 19 Jun 2023
Today we helped launch three very special walks across City Hospital in memory of Cystic Fibrosis patient Katy, who staff had sweetly dubbed Little Miss Sunshine after she brought happiness to staff at the Wolfson Cystic Fibrosis Centre.
Katy didn’t let her diagnosis stop her from enjoying life, mum Linda explained to us that Katy had taken part in a special jump off a very tall building in Las Vegas and had bungee jumped twice. Being active was part of Katy’s life and when Katy spent time at the centre, she would head out for walks around the hospital to enjoy some fresh air and exercise.
Katy's parents walk the route with members for the Cystic Fibrosis team
Specialised Physiotherapist Fiona Haynes worked with Katy to create walking routes around the City Hospital campus, which would allow Katy time outside of the centre whilst ensuring that she was still staying safe during her stays. After Katy passed away, Linda wanted to create something special in her memory, and the Sunshine Walks became the perfect way to honour and remember her.
There are three walks around City Hospital for patients and visitors to enjoy, and these vary in length. Along each route, there are special way-finders, funded by Nottingham Hospitals Charity, to help guide those enjoying these very special walks.
Chief Executive Anthony May stands with Katy's parents and the team who treated Katy
On the day of the launch, Chief Executive of Nottingham University Hospitals Anthony May paid a special tribute to Katy’s parents and thanked them for their incredible donations and time which helped to make the Sunshine Walks possible. Katy’s husband, who had travelled all the way down from Manchester for the launch, then unveiled the map, which is just inside the hospital’s purple entrance, and will guide walkers around their route.
Staff members walk with Katy's parents
Staff members from the Cystic Fibrosis Centre joined family and friends of Katy around a special walk of the red route in honour of Katy.
These walks are available across City Hospital and are a great way of honouring a very special patient. On your next visit, why not take a walk in honour of Little Miss Sunshine?
Find out more about Nottingham Hospitals Charity’s impact below.