A Brick Operative whose grandson was cared for by Glenfield Children’s Heart Unit in Leicester has raised more than £2,000 to donate to a connected charity, with help from the company he works for, Forterra.
Gary Harmer, from Coalville in Leicestershire, was so grateful for the care of his grandson Brady, who was admitted with a heart condition earlier this year, that he organised a series of events to raise £1,876 for the Heart Link Children’s Charity based at Glenfield Hospital.
As well as raising some of the money through events including a disco and karaoke at his local pub, Gary also raised extra funds through a raffle at Forterra’s Measham brickworks, in which staff donated prizes and bought tickets.
The leading building products manufacturer is donating a further £500 towards Gary’s efforts, bringing the total amount to £2,376.
Gary, his son Damien, who also works at Forterra’s Measham brickworks, his girlfriend Jodie Robinson and their young son Brady all visited Glenfield Hospital to present a cheque to the Heart Link charity, which supports parents and families who have children suffering from heart defects.
Gary said: “I wanted to show my appreciation to the marvellous people at Glenfield Hospital, without them Brady might not be here today. I’d also like to thank my friends, colleagues, and to Forterra itself, who have overwhelmed me with their support in raising this money.”
Stephen Harrison, Chief Executive of Forterra, said: “Gary and Damien Harmer represent two generations of the same family working at our Measham brickworks, so when we heard that Damien’s young son Brady had been looked after so well by Glenfield, we thought it was only right to contribute towards efforts to raise money for the charity.”
Geoff Smart, Founder and Chairman of Heart Link, said: “This fabulous donation enables us to continue to provide equipment and facilities for the children and parents who use ward 30, PICU and ECMO at Glenfield Hospital. Without fabulous fundraisers like Gary we couldn’t do what we’ve been doing for 35 years.”
