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West Midlands firefighters have donated £5,000 to Birmingham Children’s Hospital charity, inspired by the story of one of their crew commanders and his daughter.
Simon Mahon’s daughter, Evie, has been under the hospital's care since birth. Born with only one fully functioning kidney, Evie – now aged ten – receives ongoing treatment. She’s expected to need a kidney transplant later in life.
The money was raised during months of fundraising at open days, car washes and other activities, with community donations helping firefighters reach their goal. The team at Ward End fire station have been supported by crews and staff from across the service.
Simon said: "We’ve been gathering donations for the renal unit. They support and care for children having treatment for kidney conditions and receiving dialysis. Evie will eventually need full dialysis because her other kidney is overworking and is expected to one day die altogether.
“It’s an incredible feeling to be able to give back to the hospital. If our support can bring even a little happiness to the children, by investing in the ward and its facilities, then it makes everything worthwhile. It’s our way of saying ‘thank you’ for all their hard work, which has allowed Evie to live a normal and happy life.”
Dale Harris, Regional Fundraiser for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, praised both WMFS staff and the community for their efforts.
He said: “We’re incredibly grateful for West Midlands Fire Service’s support. Hearing Simon and his daughter’s story, and how passionate they are to support the hospital, means an awful lot to us. We rely on the community to help with donations and it’s an incredible amount to have raised.
“The money can be used on a range of things – from medical care to activity packs – which can help the kids if they’re in hospital for a long time. The amount they’ve raised is amazing and will make a huge difference to this department.” 
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