Eye firm looks to support young patients for a second year
Workers at a Birmingham-based eye firm have once again set their sights on boosting the lives of patients at the QE.
Aston Labs, who make lenses for spectacles, have dedicated the last 12 months to raising £2,000 for the Young Persons Unit at the QE.
From curry nights to fun runs, no month has passed without employees at the SpecSavers-owned company digging deep in aid of the cancer centre.
Now, the eye company has pledged to support the YPU for a second year running by making the unit one of their 10 ‘charities of the year’.
In a double boost for the hospital, Aston Labs have also chosen to support the QEHB’s new Eye Appeal in the coming year.
Launched this month, the appeal aims to raise £250,000 to purchase two world class machines that will save sight by diagnosing disease earlier and carrying out treatment with more accuracy and speed.
Aston Labs presented their £2,000 cheque from last year’s fundraising to the QEHB Charity at a special fundraising lunch which included a tour of the factory.
Dave Stanton (pictured), general manager at Aston Labs, said: “A year ago we asked our team to nominate local charities to support.
“The young persons unit was a clear favourite amongst our work force for all the good work they do and we hope to support them as much as we can going forward.
“Supporting the QEHB Eye appeal is easy as it reflects what we are trying to do as a business which is to be the very best eye care provider.”
Mike Hammond, chief executive of QEHB Charity, said: “We are extremely grateful to Aston Labs for their wonderful fundraising.
“Their £2,000 donation will enable us to purchase those important extras – from pizza nights to music lessons – which make such a huge difference to young people battling cancer on the YPU.
“We are delighted that they are fundraising for the YPU for a second year running and doubly thrilled that they have also chosen to back the newly-launched Eye Appeal.
“Their hard work will enable us to save people’s sight – very fitting for a firm that makes lenses.”
