H.O.G. chapter raises more than £1,000 for Stoke-on-Trent hospital charity

Stoke Chapter pulled together in an incredible fundraising effort for their local hospital charity

Through a series of heartfelt fundraising events, Stoke Chapter has raised an impressive £1,185.77 for UHNM Charity – which supports the University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust – with all proceeds dedicated to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The campaign was spearheaded by long-standing member Dennis Rawlingson, whose journey with Harley-Davidson began with a test ride many years ago that left him grinning from ear to ear.

“A friend worked at my local dealership and booked me a test ride,” Dennis recalls. “Four hours later, I came back with a big smile on my face – that was it, I was hooked.” Inspired, Dennis joined the Stoke Chapter when it launched in 2012 and has been an active member ever since. “H.O.G.^® is like a big family to me. I’ve made loads of friends and been places I never would have otherwise.”

The chapter’s recent fundraising efforts included a donation collection on the opening night of Bat Out of Hell at the Regent Theatre on 30 June, a charity bike ride between Harley-Davidson^® dealerships, and a mini Iron H.O.G. Challenge – all of which were met with enthusiastic support. The chapter also made a direct donation, culminating in a powerful moment when members rode their Harleys to the hospital to present the cheque in person. “It brought tears to everyone’s eyes,” says Dennis. “It felt really good when all the hard work came together.”

Laura’s story
The NICU was chosen as the beneficiary for a deeply personal reason. “One of our members lost someone, but the baby survived thanks to the incredible care from the premature baby unit,” Dennis shares. “That made it all the more meaningful for us.”

Laura was just 23 years old when she developed pre-eclampsia and had to undergo an emergency operation to deliver her daughter, Bree, who was only 2lbs 2oz when she was born. Due to the amazing care that Bree received, she thrived and, after a month in hospital, was allowed to go home and be reunited with her mother and father.

Sadly, not long after the family were together again, Laura complained of a pain in her leg before collapsing. Paramedics were called, but there was little they could do – Laura had suffered a blood clot in her brain and had to be placed on life support with no sign of recovery. After two weeks, the decision was made to end life support, and her organs were donated, with transplants saving three lives as a result.

Charity work
This isn’t the first time the Stoke Chapter has supported UHNM Charity. Earlier in the year, they delivered 98 Easter eggs to the children’s ward – accompanied by a 6ft inflatable white rabbit – and they’re not stopping there. “We’re now getting ready to do a toy donation at the children’s ward,” Dennis added. “That always gets to me.”

UHNM Charity expressed heartfelt thanks for the chapter’s generosity and spirit. “The support from the Stoke Chapter was truly inspiring,” a spokesperson said. “Their efforts have not only raised vital funds but also helped bring our message to new audiences in the most uplifting and memorable way.”

Thanks to the chapter’s dedication, the NICU will be better equipped to provide life-saving care and comfort to newborns and their families. It’s a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a community comes together for a cause.

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