A Decontamination Services Technician at Airedale Hospital has "braved the shave" to support his mum who is currently undergoing treatment.
Michael Laidler and Janet Laidler-Smith have collectively raised over £2000 for Airedale NHS Foundation Trust’s Haematology and Oncology Day Unit (HODU) through a 'brave the shave' and by selling planters to their local community.
Janet, who has been receiving treatment has also supported Airedale’s elderly patients, families of palliative care patients and children by purchasing items from Airedale Hospital & Community Charity’s Amazon wish lists.
Laura Hepworth, Community Fundraiser said:
“We’re in awe of Janet and Michael and everything that they’ve achieved whilst going through what only be described as one of the hardest times of anyone’s lives. The kindness they have shown throughout their fundraising journey is truly inspirational.
“We can’t thank them or their family and friends enough for not only fundraising for HODU but for also extending that generosity to other areas of the Hospital.”
As an act of solidarity, Michael braved the shave in June of this year at an event held at local pub, The King’s Arms in Sutton.
Surrounded by friends and family he took the plunge and shaved his head and beard.
Michael said:
“For many people going through chemo, losing their hair can feel like a visible marker of the illness, affecting self-esteem and causing feelings of vulnerability. It’s a constant reminder of the disease.
"Seeing my Mam go through this has made me want to do all I can to support her and show her how her strength and courage inspires me.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey.
He added:
|The amount raised for HODU is incredible and we’re so happy to be able to give back to the Unit after the support they have provided my Mam with.
"She is already looking at how she can fill her time next year and has some weird and wacky fundraising ideas lined up for us all.
"This won’t be the last you hear of us!”
If you would like to take on a challenge for HODU or support Airedale Hospital & Community Charity visit their website here, contact the charity by email anhsft.charity@nhs.net or call 01535 294870

Skipton BID celebrates Silver Gilt success at Yorkshire in Bloom Awards
Skipton BID rejects claims town is struggling
Sugden End tip reopening approved after £400,000 funding row
Over 500 Afghans resettled in North Yorkshire as 23 households await new homes
Craven College students join campaign to reopen Skipton-Colne railway
Cyclist dies following collision on A59 near Skipton
Terminal illness council tax exemption could cost North Yorkshire £2.2m a year
Annual golf day raises £4,383 for Airedale Hospital
Eddie 'The Eagle' to attend opening of new vet practice in Skipton
Skipton Vintage Supply set to open this weekend
Plans for Keighley Bowling Alley approved
Mayor brands lack of fixed speed cameras in North Yorkshire ‘shameful’
Skipton team raises £3,300+ for The Principle Trust in Three Peaks challenge
Manorlands runners raise £45,000 at Great North Run
North Yorkshire buses are a ‘mess’ after years of underinvestment, says mayor
North Yorkshire Police to use live facial recognition for first time
Free Halloween pumpkin patch and monster trail returning to Skipton
Yarndale set to bring thousands of yarn lovers to Skipton
Council chiefs back school transport policy despite "legacy of harm" claim


