Children and families across County Durham and Darlington are set to receive quicker access to vital heart assessments following the donation of a new specialist echocardiography machine by the Red Sky Foundation.
The advanced £60,000 paediatric diagnostic device has been gifted to Darlington Memorial Hospital, enhancing children’s cardiac services and helping to reduce waiting times for young patients who require detailed heart examinations and monitoring.
The new machine will allow clinical teams to carry out detailed heart scans for babies and children more efficiently, improving patient experience and supporting earlier diagnosis and treatment.
The non-invasive scan plays a crucial role in identifying potentially serious heart issues early and ensuring patients receive the care they need as quickly as possible.
Funding for the project was supported through a remarkable fundraising effort, including a small group of dedicated Red Sky Foundation supporters who travelled to Everest Base Camp to help raise money towards the appeal.
The adventurers self-funded their entire expedition, ensuring every penny donated goes directly toward supporting babies, children and adults living with heart conditions. Their challenge and fundraising efforts, has helped bring the vital equipment to local healthcare services.
Dr. Sergio Petrucci (Hon.) MBE, CEO and Founder of Red Sky Foundation said:
“We are incredibly proud to fund this much-needed echo heart machine for the paediatric department at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust. Early diagnosis is absolutely vital when it comes to heart conditions, and this equipment will make a real difference to children and families across the region.
“This simply would not have been possible without our amazing Everest trekkers, whose commitment, determination and passion to help others has been nothing short of inspirational. Their challenge will leave a lasting legacy for so many families.”
Rich Jones, CDDFT Charity Manager said:
“We are incredibly grateful to Red Sky Foundation, and everyone involved in supporting this appeal. This new paediatric echo machine will make a real difference for children and families across our communities by helping reduce waiting times and improving access to specialist cardiac diagnostics.”
The partnership marks another important step in improving healthcare services for children, patients and staff which will strengthening collaboration between the Trust and Red Sky Foundation.
Lauren Faye, General ManagerPaediatrics and Neonates added:
“We look forward to continuing to work together and supporting one another in the future to make a lasting difference for children and families.”
