Local Minister Runs Rome Marathon to Raise Funds for Whittington Hospital’s Children’s Ward

On Sunday 16 March, Rev. Dr. Jonathan Abernethy-Barkley, Minister of Pond Square Chapel in Highgate, will take on the Rome Marathon to raise vital funds for Whittington Health Charity.

 

Funds raised will go towards helping to transform the hospital’s Children’s Ward and improve the experience of young patients.

 

This includes making the ward more child-friendly with floor-to-ceiling artwork, improving overnight facilities for parents, and purchasing VR headsets to help distract children undergoing medical procedures, reducing anxiety and pain.

 

The Charity also has plans to create a dedicated bay for adolescent patients, featuring a comfortable breakout space where teenagers can socialise, play games, and watch television.

 

Supporters are encouraged to contribute to the fundraising effort, helping to bring these much-needed enhancements to life. Every donation, big or small, will help ensure that children and their families receive the best possible care in a welcoming and supportive environment.

 

Rev. Dr. Jonathan Abernethy-Barkley said, “A common phrase we hear in our local community is ‘I was born at Whittington Hospital’ or ‘my child was born at Whittington Hospital’. The hospital has a real community feel and serves local people from birth to end of life. The care is exceptional, but the facilities need improvement, particularly in the Children’s ward. This is my way of giving back to a place that has given so much to the community."

Whittington Health NHS Trust Acting Chief Executive, Dr Clare Dollery, said “We are incredibly grateful for Rev. Dr. Jonathan’s commitment to running the Rome Marathon in support of our organisation. Every donation, no matter the size, will help us create a more comforting environment for children and young people receiving care at our hospital site. His dedication, along with the generosity of our community, will truly make a difference in transforming the patient experience.”