Donations used for hospital training dummy

A patient's fundraising efforts have paid for a training mannequin at Furness General

The friends and family of a former hospital patient have helped raise thousands of pounds to support the training of staff.

Margaret Shepherd, 56, stayed in Furness General Hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for two weeks in January 2023.

Following her return home, her loved ones organised a raffle which raised £4,000.

ICU staff said they have used the windfall on buying a life support mannequin which will improve training for teams on the ward.

The Atlas Life Support Manikin allows staff to simulate clinical scenarios like patient deterioration, the Bay Hospitals Charity said.

ICU clinical lead Chris Langley added: "The mannequin will be used to deliver training to colleagues at all levels from student nurses and doctors to new starters and experienced staff."

Margaret Shepherd said contributing was a "huge privilege" for her and her family

Mrs Shepherd said: "I received such wonderful care from the staff at Furness General Hospital, particularly the ICU staff who literally saved my life.

"Without their care, expertise and dedication to their vocation I wouldn’t be here today."

"They are the most inspirational group of people I have ever met."