Wilberforce Lodge is leading an appeal to raise £10,000 for the provision of a state-of-the-art High Definition Digital Camera for use in Laproscopic (Keyhole) Surgery.

The appeal has been launched because quite a few Freemasons in the Castle Hill Hospital catchment area have had successful prostate operations, biopsies, or are under the consultants because of high PSA levels. It was decided that, because of the exceptional care received and in line with our Charitable giving ethos, we would like to put something back into the system.

In discussions with Matt Simms, the Consultant Surgeon who has operated on some of our Brethren, he would like to purchase this piece of high-tech equipment with a view to giving a better outcome in surgical operations. Because of budgetary restrictions this cannot currently be provided by the NHS and we therefore decided to step in and try to raise the necessary funds.

The appeal has been promoted to all lodges in the area and, in their usual generous way, the response has been very positive. The suggested donation per lodge to meet the target is £500 and many pledges or cheques have been received. The appeal is scheduled to close in September and hopefully we will achieve a substantial amount by then but we will be applying to Provincial Grand Charity for matching funding to make up any shortfall.

One of our brethren, Worshipful Brother Richard Wright, has generously launched his own supporting project by holding a competition with a prize of a luxury day out on his motor cruiser.

It is also hoped that Matt Simms will be the guest speaker at the annual Wilberforce Dinner when proceeds of the evening will go towards the fund.

Any other initiatives or personal donations would be gratefully received and faithfully applied.

Laproscopic (keyhole) Surgery

The excellent news is that the target has been achieved and just over £10,000 raised. A tremendous thank you to all those who donated in order to raise the money. The appeal also received a cheque for £3500 from the Provincial Grand Charity. Since the appeal started, the cost of the equipment has gone up to £11,900 but with the amount raised going over the original £10,ooo, plus a top up from the Hospital Fund, the Hospital is to go ahead and get the equipment. This has been a tremendous effort from all and particularly from W.B. John Bridges who originated and co-ordinated this appeal...

Thanks to everyone.