Doctors take part in NHS triathlon to raise awareness and funds for hospital macular unit

The UHMBT macular clinic treats patients who have age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and other retinal pathologies such as; blockages in retinal vessels. The aim of the department is to preserve vision, hopefully enabling patients to maintain their independence.

Three members of staff from the department took part in the NHS triathlon in Bolton. Each member cycled, swan or ran. The team included: Mr Simon Morgan, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Dr Patil Jayaprakash, Associate Specialist in Ophthalmology and Dr Lakshmi Patil, Trust Associate Specialist.

The team achieved a very admirable 15 place nationally, with Mr Morgan placing eighth in the cycling leg.

By taking part in the triathlon and various other events throughout the year the team aim to raise £100k for Bay Hospitals Charity, which will fund equipment for the Macular Unit.

This equipment will hopefully enable them to expand the service offered to local patients.

Dr Lakshmi Patil said; “The triathlon has been something that we have entered since it first started in 2012.

“As a team we enjoy the time as it gives us the opportunity to network with other Trusts as well as being ambassadors’ proudly promoting UHMBT.

Donations can be made to: www.justgiving.com/linda-williams33.

Further information on the NHS Fun Tri can be found at: http://www.nhstriathlon.co.uk/.