The Patterson Family Raise Over £10,000 for Children’s Diabetes Care at The Royal Derby Hospital
When Bradley Patterson was suddenly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2022 at just 7 years old, his world—and his family’s—was turned upside down. What followed, however, was a story of gratitude, determination, and a desire to make a difference. Thanks to early detection, Bradley’s condition was caught in time, and he’s now thriving, but the outcome could have been very different.
It was during this difficult time that Bradley’s parents, Lynn and Tom, found themselves deeply moved by the care and support they received from the incredible staff at the Royal Derby Hospital, particularly Dr Kumar, who not only helped Bradley through his diagnosis but also made a heartfelt request: to raise awareness of the early signs of type 1 diabetes:
TIRED, THIRSTY, THINNER, TOILET
Dr Kumar asked Lynn and Tom to promise that they would do everything they could to educate others about the condition, and it’s a promise they have kept ever since. The Patterson family has worked tirelessly to spread awareness of type 1 diabetes, helping others understand the signs and the importance of early detection.
When they were ready, the Patterson family decided to take their commitment one step further by raising funds for Children’s Diabetes care at the Royal Derby Hospital, which had been such a lifeline for them during their journey. They knew first-hand the positive impact the hospital’s team had on Bradley’s health and wellbeing, and wanted to give back in a meaningful way.
A 4 Day Sponsored Bike Ride for a Big Cause
In March 2024, the Patterson family set off on an ambitious fundraising challenge: a sponsored bike ride from Royal Derby Hospital to Lynn’s hometown of Dundalk in Ireland. It was an epic journey, covering around 242 miles and taking them four days to complete. The family—Lynn, Tom, Josh and Bradley, along with a few close family members and friends—set out on 28th March with a single goal in mind: to raise as much awareness and money as possible for the department that had supported Bradley.
The ride was no easy feat, with long days in the saddle and some tough moments along the way, but the determination to make a difference kept them going. And their hard work paid off—they raised over £10,000, a remarkable sum that will directly benefit children like Bradley and help fund vital resources for Diabetes care at the Children’s Hospital at the Royal Derby.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Lynn and Tom are quick to express their gratitude to the Royal Derby Hospital team, whose care has been nothing short of life-changing for their son. But they are also deeply thankful for the generous support of their workplaces Rolls Royce and Anthony Gell Secondary School, Bradley’s wonderful school Mugginton C of E Primary, their friends, family, and the wider community especially Derby County FC and Derby County Community Trust who helped them achieve their fundraising goal.
Lynn and Tom relocated to Derby in 2013, it was through this challenging experience that they truly came to see the city as their home. “Bradley’s diagnosis has really made us feel that Derby is our home,” they said. “The love and care we received here has meant everything to us, and now we’re proud to give back in any way we can.”
What’s Next?
The Patterson family’s journey is far from over. They’ve inspired so many people along the way, and their story continues to raise awareness about type 1 diabetes.
If you’d like to contribute to their fundraising campaign, you can still donate to the Royal Derby Children’s Hospital through Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a huge difference in the lives of young patients like Bradley.
Thank you, Bradley and the Patterson family, for your incredible fundraising efforts and for inspiring us all to make a difference!
