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Ipswich open day to raise funds for life-saving bleed kits

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A family open day at Princes Street fire and police station this Sunday aims to fund more emergency bleed kits for Ipswich, which could potentially save lives in critical situations.

The big picture: The event supports the Be Lucky Anti-Crime Foundation's mission to install bleed kits across Ipswich, which can be crucial in treating victims of incidents like stabbings.

The Be Lucky Anti-Crime Foundation has already installed more than 40 bleed kits around Ipswich and Felixstowe.

Paul Stansby and Jamie Hart of the Be Lucky Anti-Crime Foundation with firefighters and police officers
Paul Stansby and Jamie Hart of the Be Lucky Anti-Crime Foundation with firefighters and police officers from Princes Street station, which will host a family fun day this Sunday to raise funds for a bleed kit and the Firefighters CharitySFRS

Why it matters: Bleed kits can mean the difference between life and death in emergencies, allowing first responders to act swiftly and effectively.

Key details:

  • Date: Sunday, 15 September

  • Time: 11:00-15:00

  • Location: Princes Street fire and police station, Ipswich

  • Highlights: Search and rescue challenges, firehose demonstrations, photo opportunities in police and fire vehicles, face painting and a raffle

What they're saying: "This event represents a wonderful opportunity for us to unite with the community and raise vital funds for an emergency bleed control kit, which has the potential to save lives in critical situations," said Paul Stansby, co-founder of the Be Lucky Anti-Crime Foundation.

Background: Stansby and Jamie Hart of the Lucky 13 tattoo studio set up the foundation in memory of Stansby's brother, who was fatally stabbed near Ipswich railway station in 2017.

The bottom line: "We believe that by coming together, we can create a safer environment for everyone and empower our local heroes in emergency response," Stansby added.

Funds raised will also support the Firefighters Charity, which aids firefighters and their families in times of need.

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Local cancer survivor to abseil Ipswich Hospital this May

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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Ipswich man Joe Alexander will join fellow adrenaline junkies to abseil down the maternity tower at Ipswich Hospital on 3-4 May, raising funds for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity.

Why it matters: The fundraising event will support improvements to patient experience across East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), which runs local hospitals and community services in Ipswich and Colchester.

A brave abseiler at a previous Extreme Abseil event
A brave abseiler at a previous Extreme Abseil eventIpswich & Colchester Hospitals Charity

The details: The adrenaline-fuelled weekend promises breathtaking views and a massive pat on the back for participants who – unlike me – are brave enough to take the plunge.

Who's taking part: Among the courageous abseilers is Joe Alexander from Ipswich, who is conquering his fear of heights for a cause close to his heart.

"I've experienced first-hand the exceptional care and facilities provided by the staff in the Woolverstone Wing at Ipswich Hospital," he said. "The unit is out of this world - you cannot be treated in a better place."

Joe Alexander after his second diagnosis
Joe Alexander after his second diagnosisIpswich & Colchester Hospitals Charity

The background: Joe was diagnosed with a rare form of testicular cancer in 2000 at age 25, and later with lymphoma in 2022. His personal journey has inspired his commitment to supporting local healthcare services.

What they're saying: "We're thrilled to be hosting the Extreme Abseil once again at Ipswich Hospital," said Sandra Gosney, the charity's community fundraising and events manager. "It's a fantastic opportunity for people to challenge themselves while raising funds that make such a difference to health and healing within our community."

Joe Alexander after his recovery
Joe Alexander after his recoveryIpswich & Colchester Hospitals Charity

Worth noting: Barnes Construction is sponsoring this year's event, which the charity described as "crucial" to their fundraising activities.

The bottom line: Those interested in participating or making a donation can visit colchesteripswichcharity.org.uk.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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