Summer has arrived and with it, RBH Charity has restarted our programme of in-person events. It makes such a difference to be able to meet Royal Brompton & Harefield friends and supporters in person.

The first event for the Charity in more than 18 months was the long-established Annual Golf Day at Denham Golf Club. It was a fabulous occasion – the weather was kind, the greens were quick and generosity flowed into the evening. We are particularly grateful to Shakin’ Stevens, who hosts the event, and our sponsors Martin Baker and Metro Golf Centre. We raised more than £26,000 for our Covid-19 Relief Fund – a tremendous achievement.

A small group of intrepid fundraisers (including our own Sallinder Rai) took to the skies last week in our Wing Walk challenge. These brave souls had an experience they will never forget, soaring above the East London skies strapped to a biplane. They also raised over £13,000 to support the work of the Charity.

And – restrictions allowing – we have more events coming up. On Monday 19 July, we will host an afternoon tea at the wonderful St James Restaurant in Bushey to support our Covid-19 Relief Fund. And I will be striding across some of London’s iconic bridges with almost 100 other supporters on Sunday 25 July. You can still sign up and join me here.

These events are great fun for the participants (even the Wing Walk, Sall assures me) but there’s a serious purpose behind each one. We are still deep in uncertain times. Our hospitals have been on the frontline of the COVID response and will continue to be so as long as they’re needed. They also need to continue to provide world class care to heart and lung patients. The pressure on staff in particular has been – and continues to be – immense. In this context, any help we can provide makes a massive difference.

Thank you for your support, now and always.