Thanks to the generosity of Sheffield Hospitals Charity supporters, the Ambulatory Heart Failure Lounge at Chesterman 2 has been completely transformed.
What was once a dull, grey clinical room has become a warm, vibrant, and calming space, fondly described by patients and staff as an oasis. The refurbishment includes new flooring, ambient lighting, relaxing furniture, a media wall with a Smart TV, plants, reclining chairs, and even small comforts like jigsaw puzzles and Bluetooth speakers.
Patients often support one another through shared experiences, forming friendships that help them through tough times. Some days are joyful. Others involve difficult conversations about treatment effectiveness and prognosis. Now, those discussions can happen in a dedicated space that is a private and respectful setting, away from the main treatment area.
For many patients, receiving heart failure treatment can involve long, repetitive visits, sometimes daily for weeks. Thanks to the lounge, they can now receive essential therapies without needing to be admitted to hospital. This improves not only their comfort and quality of life but also helps to reduce unnecessary admissions and speed up discharges.
Part of the funds raised came from Pauline Edge, a Senior Sister on the Unit herself who went to great heights to help.
“I’d always wanted to do a skydive!” Pauline explains. “I saw it on the charity’s website, and from working on Chesterman and seeing the difference charity funds already make; it inspired me. I knew I had to do something to give back.
I’m just so grateful to everyone that donated and got behind me. It’s been heartwarming to see how patients, families, and staff have come together to support something that truly makes a difference. Patients tell us every day how lovely it is. The impact on patients and staff has been nothing short of remarkable. We’ve had nothing but positive comments!”
One patient remarked, “It used to feel like a clinical waiting room. Now I can just relax, put the ambient light on, play music, and do what I’d do at home. It helps more than you can ever imagine.”
Pauline added, “This has really opened my eyes to just how amazing Sheffield Hospitals Charity is. To see what’s been done not just here but across the Trust. It’s incredible. Everyone has been amazing, and I just want to say thank you.”
If you want to start your fundraising journey, you can find out more here or read more about the impact the charity has on Sheffield’s NHS here.
Published: Wednesday 6th of August 2025