Funds raised for Rainbow Ward by neighbouring businesses in Haverhill

A tattoo parlour and a fitness studio linked up for a fundraising event in aid of the childrens’ unit at the West Suffolk Hospital.

Legacy Tattoo and the neighbouring business of Aerial Motion, in Haverhill, teamed up for a “Poison Party” over the Halloween weekend and raised nearly £3,000 for the Rainbow Ward.

There was an art show, hoop dance performances, clothes sales along with a disco for the event which attracted up to 80 people.

It was organised by tattoo parlour owners Mike and his brother Chris Stockings along with pole and aerial fitness instructors Emily Stockings and Dorigen Bell at their premises in Queen’s Square.

It came after Mike and Emily’s son Phoenix was treated at the ward after he was diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, a kidney disorder that causes the body to pass too much protein in the urine.

It is usually caused by damage to the clusters of small blood vessels in the kidneys that filter waste and excess water from the blood. The condition causes swelling, particularly in the feet and ankles, and increases the risk of other health problems.

Phoenix, who is now four-years-old, was an inpatient, and Mike and Emily wanted to help repay the ward for the great care and wonderful treatment that their son received.

Mike said the party went extremely well starting at 6pm and going on until 11pm with everyone attending contributing to the fundraising and he was delighted with the response.

He said his son was diagnosed with the symptoms when they took him to the hospital after the youngster developed excess swelling in this face.

“His condition was quite bad when he got into the hospital but the staff were just amazing and he was put on a course of medication,” said Mike.

“They were very calming and attentive even though they appeared to be rushed off their feet all the while and we felt he was in safe hands.”

Sue Smith, head of fundraising at My WiSH Charity said: “It was lovely to meet Mike, Emily and the team behind this incredible event. I was blown away by the amount raised, and it will be used to enhance the care of our little patients on the children’s ward. When we receive donations like this it really shows the staff what an incredible job they are doing, which I know means so much to them.”

Main photo: Pictured at Legacy Tattoo and the organiser of the fundraising event for the Rainbow Ward, left to right, are Dorigen Bell, Chris Stockings, Mike Stockings and Emily Stockings.