Nottingham Panthers swap sticks for serving trays to raise over £4000 for Nottingham Children's Hospital
Posted on: 4 Mar 2026
Ice hockey stars from the Nottingham Panthers traded their sticks for serving trays at a special fundraising evening in support of Nottingham Children's Hospital.
Held at Pitcher & Piano Nottingham and organised in partnership with Lake Energy, the event gave fans the rare opportunity to be served canapés and drinks by their favourite players - all while raising an impressive £4655 for young patients and their families.
The evening held particular significance for Panthers forward Jordan Kelsall, whose 17-year-old cousin Ella is currently undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at the hospital.
Ella was diagnosed in July 2025, after what began as a blood test turned into an emergency admission within hours. She has since been receiving ongoing treatment on Ward E39 at Nottingham Children’s Hospital, supported by a specialist team who care not only for patients’ medical needs but for their emotional wellbeing too.
“Life changed overnight,” Ella said. “The doctors, nurses and play specialists have all been incredible. Sharing my story isn’t easy, but if it helps at least one person, it’s really important.
“It’s an amazing outcome to see so many people at the fundraiser, I didn’t expect it. There are so many opportunities to raise money for Nottingham Hospitals Charity and spread awareness, and I’m so happy I could be here tonight.”
Her mum, Emma, added: “You never imagine your child will be the one in hospital - not in a million years. The support we’ve had has from Nottingham Hospitals Charity and the Children’s Hospital has been incredible. I’m not sure we would have got through without it, to be honest.”
The fundraiser marked a powerful moment within the Panthers’ Community Programme - an initiative that uses the club’s profile to make a positive difference across Nottinghamshire through charity partnerships and local outreach. As Community Programme sponsors, Lake Energy were invited to nominate a chosen charity partner and inspired by Jordan’s story and Ella’s bravery, they selected Nottingham Children’s Hospital.
Phoebe Lake of Lake Energy worked closely with Jordan to organise the evening, determined to channel the support of fans and the wider business community to support local families right here in Nottingham.
“We chose Nottingham Children’s Hospital because we believe in building a sustainable future and supporting local communities,” said Phoebe. “When we heard Ella’s story through Jordan, it really brought home how vital the hospital’s work is. We’re very happy with the turnout - it’s more than we could have asked for - and everyone has come together for such a great cause.
“Donations make the world of difference to families like Ella’s, and we’re incredibly proud to stand behind this partnership.”
Jordan added: “It’s nice to be here with everyone - it’s an amazing turnout. We’re raising money inspired by a family situation with Ella, but there are a lot of families out there in a similar position and we want to do everything we can to help families in Nottingham going through a difficult time and the NHS staff who support them.”
The £4,655 raised on the night came through ticket sales, generous donations and a charity raffle featuring prizes donated by local businesses.
Samantha Paterson, Corporate Fundraising Lead at Nottingham Hospitals Charity, said:
“We’re incredibly grateful and thankful to the Nottingham Panthers, Lake Energy and everyone who supported this fantastic evening. It really shines a spotlight on how Nottingham Hospitals Charity is at the heart of patient care right here in Nottingham - making a real, tangible difference for patients and their families every single day.
“We’re proud to stand side by side with our incredible colleagues across Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, supporting both patients and their loved ones through some of the most challenging times.
“It’s even more special as we celebrate 20 years this year. Seeing our local community come together - uniting Panthers fans, players, families and local businesses in support of young patients - is truly inspiring and shows the powerful impact we can make when we come together.”
From funding life-saving equipment to enhancing ward environments and providing thoughtful extras that reduce fear and anxiety, the money raised will make a real difference to young patients like Ella here in Nottingham. The funds will help deliver specialist medical equipment, create more welcoming spaces, and provide those added comforts that make a difficult hospital stay a little easier for children and their families across the region - while also supporting the incredible NHS staff who care for them every day.
Find out more about how we support Nottingham Children's Hospital at our upcoming Impact Evening
If you've been inspired by how Lake Energy and Nottingham Panthers have come together for a fantastic fundraising event why not jpin us on Thursday, 23 April.
We’re bringing together Nottingham’s business community for an inspiring evening of connection and NHS insight. where you'll be able to hear from the frontline at Nottingham Children’s Hospital, discover how businesses are making a difference, and enjoy relaxed networking at Hipps Café, QMC.
It's free to attend and you can register for your place below.
Impact Evening with Nottingham Hospitals Charity
Join us for our brand new impact evening and networking event
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