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A major new appeal to raise £250,000 for patients receiving life-changing care at the St Andrew's Centre in Broomfield Hospital has been launched.

The St Andrew's Burns and Plastics Appeal, led by Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, will fund projects designed to improve recovery, comfort and wellbeing for children and adults treated at the specialist regional centre.

A centre of excellence in burns, plastics and dermatology care for more than 50 years, it’s a major regional hub for treatment, providing burns, plastic and reconstructive surgery, as well as hand therapy services to patients across Essex and beyond.

One patient whose life has been transformed by the centre is Maizie Stockwell. The burns team has cared for Maizie since she suffered a severe burn injury aged just eight months.

Her mum, Jodie Stockwell, from Terling, near Chelmsford, said: "When Maizie was airlifted to Broomfield Hospital, it was the burns team that saved my daughter's life. As a family, we see the children's ward as our second home and the team as an extension of our family.

"Maizie has had 57 operations in total and many of those have been at Broomfield. When she's been unable to leave the ward due to infection risk, it's been the themed rooms, toys, sensory lights and games that have made all the difference. The beds mean we can stay close to her too.

"When it comes to clinical care, emotional support and friendship, we couldn't ask for more."

One of Maizie's most recent operations involved the amputation of her leg below the knee as a result of her burns injuries. The operation took place on her 14th birthday.

Lucy Thomas-Clayton, Director for Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, said: "For many patients like Maizie, a devastating burn, traumatic injury or cancer diagnosis can change life in an instant.

"We already know the amazing specialist teams at the St Andrew's Centre deliver expert treatment when it matters most, helping people through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. With your support we want to do even more.

"Funds raised through this appeal will help create a more supportive and comforting environment for patients and their loved ones. Planned improvements include enhanced waiting and treatment areas, overnight beds for relatives, sensory items and artwork for children and investment in specialist facilities and training."

From emergency care and reconstructive surgery to rehabilitation and psychological support, its teams help patients rebuild confidence, independence and hope.

Tanya Bradd, Senior Sister on the Children's Burns Ward, said: "In my 16 years on the children's burns ward, I've met some remarkable children who have shown incredible resilience. Their families are remarkable too.

"Going further for our patients is something we do every day. Support from this appeal will help us provide those extra touches that make a big difference."

The charity is encouraging individuals, community groups and businesses to support the appeal through donations, fundraising events and sponsored challenges.

To find out more or support the appeal, please visit: https://msehospitalscharity.co.uk/our-impact/st-andrews-appeal/