Golfers at the Exeter Golf and Country Club have raised thousands of pounds in support cancer services at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (RD&E).
Men’s and ladies’ 2023-24 golf captains Geoff Fidler and Vicki Rogers teed off a year of fundraising for Royal Devon Hospitals Charity (RDHC) in March last year, organising a series of golfing events for their chosen charity.
Just over a year later, they’ve presented a massive £22,500 fundraising cheque to help improve patient experience at the RD&E’s oncology department.
The department treated Geoff for prostate cancer more than a decade ago, and again in 2022 when his cancer returned.
He said: “Throughout my time in radiotherapy, I met many other cancer patients who were also being treated by the marvellous team of radiologists, and like myself, had nothing but praise and admiration for the staff who cared for us.
“I really wanted to give something back by helping to further improve the facilities within the oncology department, and with Vicki’s support, we’re delighted to have been able to raise so much money.
Events during their captaincy year included ladies’ and men’s pro-am events and captaincy days at the Topsham Road club, as well as fundraising dinners and sponsored walks.
Vicki said: “We’re delighted to have raised so much for such a worthy cause and are incredibly grateful to all the golfers and club members who have given so generously over the last 12 months.
“So many of us will be touched by cancer at some point in our lives, so it’s fantastic to be able to help our wonderful hospital staff give patients the best possible experience during their treatment.”
Debbie Allen, RDHC community fundraiser, said: “Geoff and Vicki have galvanised local golfers and made a huge impact for their local hospital.
“Their incredible efforts are a shining example of what’s possible when the community comes together to rally for a cause close to their hearts and we can’t thank them enough for their support.”
