The £500 pot of gold at the end of the rainbow

The appeal to provide a £1million CT scanner for Tameside Hospital was given another boost this week thanks to kind-hearted widow Marion Platt and her grandson Chad Headford.

When Chad, who works in the Trust’s pharmacy department, told Marion about the appeal she was delighted to help. 

She got busy making rainbow cushions  - her tribute to the NHS - and Chad acted as salesman.

The result is a £500 cheque which Marion will present to Trust Chief Executive Karen James when lockdown rules are lifted.

Marion, 75, who has three daughters and eight grandchildren, made the cushions using recycled material which she washes and irons and turns into colourful masterpieces which she sells for just £5.

She explained: “When the first lockdown came, I asked Chad what I could do to help, and he told me about the Scanner Appeal. 

“My husband - Chad’s grandad - died of pancreatic cancer so I understand how important machines like these are in detecting and diagnosing disease and illnesses. 

“Making the cushions kept me busy and with the second lockdown I’m back in business. 

“I only charge £5 a cushion because I know a lot of people are struggling financially but it’s amazing how generous folk can be. And, in the run-up to Christmas I’m now taking orders for football cushions from City and United fans alike.”

Karen James says she wants to thank the pair for their kindness and support. 

“Every day I hear of wonderful people like Marion and Chad who are making a difference by supporting the appeal for our much-needed CT scanner. Chad is a much-valued member of our pharmacy department, and I can’t wait to meet Marion to thank her in person.”

If you’re fundraising for the Scanner Appeal or want to chat about ways you can help, please contact the Trust’s Head of Fundraising Kate Leadbeater on kate.leadbeater@tgh.nhs.uk