Hundreds of walkers swapped their trainers for slippers this weekend as families and friends gathered in Heaton Park for Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust Charity’s very first annual Pyjama Walk – helping its Children’s Rocket Scanner Appeal reach its fundraising target!

The 5km sponsored stroll raised vital funds to equip the Trust’s family of hospitals with two playful, rocket-shaped MRI-simulators designed to help children overcome the fear and anxiety associated with MRI scans.

Among those who took part in the Pyjama Walk was five-year-old Hugo Campbell from Sale, who walked alongside his mum, Laura, dad, Paul and his older siblings, Georgia and Teddy.

Hugo was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour, known as an Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumour, when he was just 22 months old. Since then, he has undergone 12 surgeries, nine months of intensive treatment and two further years of chemotherapy after a relapse, finally completing his treatment in August this year.

Hugo has required countless MRI scans throughout his treatment, many of which initially had to be performed under sedation.

Hugo’s dad, Paul Campbell said: “At first, Hugo had to be fully sedated for all his scans, which meant he was anxious for hours beforehand. It made the whole process so much harder. Over time, he’s gradually learned to manage his scans awake, but it’s still a big, scary machine for a young child.

“The Rocket Scanner will make such a difference to children like Hugo. Being able to practise in a fun, safe environment would have helped Hugo feel comfortable much sooner.

“We’ve done 10ks and marathons before, but this event was one for the kids. Hugo’s been so excited to walk in his pyjamas as it’s a way for him to give something back after everything he’s been through. The hospital and charity have supported us so much. They make the toughest times a little easier.”

Also taking part in the event was thirty-six-year-old Amy Flynn from Wigan, who has undergone extensive treatment and multiple surgeries at Manchester Royal Infirmary for a lifelong bowel condition.

Amy, who has had five stoma operations and numerous reconstructive surgeries, spent ten weeks in Manchester Royal Infirmary earlier this year, including time on Ward 11 and in High Dependency Care.

She is currently awaiting a pre-op at MRI for her three hernias and stoma revision.

Amy said: “I’ve spent long periods of time in Manchester Royal Infirmary, so I know how daunting MRI scans and hospital stays can be – especially for children. Supporting the Children’s Rocket Scanner Appeal felt like a brilliant way to make a difference for young patients cared for across Manchester Royal Infirmary’s sister hospitals.

“When I was too weak to walk, staff would take me outside in my wheelchair for some fresh air. They made time for me, even on the busiest days, and that kindness meant everything. Taking part in the Pyjama Walk was my way of giving something back and saying thank you for the care I received.”

The Children’s Rocket Scanner Appeal was first championed by Gillian Bailey-Smith, Diagnostic Modality Lead for MRI at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, who proudly took part in the Pyjama Walk alongside her two children and her husband.

Gillian said: “The Rocket Scanners offer a more interactive and personalised experience for children as opposed to similar MRI simulators. Children can see themselves as they are sat inside the scanner, as well as track their own progress for remaining still.

“The first experience of an MRI scan can shape how someone feels about scans for the rest of their life. If we can make that first experience positive, we can reduce trauma and the need for sedation, not just now but into adulthood.

“Taking part in the Pyjama Walk with my family felt really special and it brought everything full circle. I see firsthand how much these appeals help our patients, but walking alongside families like Hugo’s really shows what it’s all about. The support from the community has been incredible.”

Kathy Cowell OBE DL, Chair of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the success of our first-ever sponsored Pyjama Walk, which has helped our Children’s Rocket Scanner Appeal reach its fundraising target.

“The incredible support we’ve received will make a real difference – helping children cared for across our family of hospitals to feel more comfortable and confident during what can be a daunting MRI scan experience.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part in the Pyjama Walk or supported our Appeal. Your generosity will have a lasting impact, helping to make hospital visits less intimidating and more positive for our young patients and their families.”