Hastings Lodge Supports Derby Renal Unit with £1,200 Donation

On Friday 14th August, six members of Hastings Lodge No. 8695 travelled from the Masonic Hall in Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire, to the Renal Unit at Derby Royal Infirmary. They went to hand over the Lodge’s donation to the Unit’s fundraising appeal.

Peter Jones was joined on the visit by Mervyn Wass, Stuart Cooper, John Starkey, Tony Jones and Malcolm Bond. They presented a cheque for £1,150, which brought the Lodge’s total gift to £1,200.

Replacing a much-loved caravan

The Renal Unit is raising £75,000 to replace its specially equipped holiday caravan on the Welsh coast, which can no longer be used. The caravan lets patients on dialysis go on holiday with their families while still getting the treatment they need, which is something many of them would otherwise struggle to do. About £50,000 has been raised so far, so the Unit is well on its way to its target.

Why the appeal matters to us

For Hastings Lodge, this cause is personal. Two members, Tony Jones and Malcolm Bond, are being treated at the Renal Unit, and Brother Malcolm has dialysis at home every day. Seeing what the Unit does for them is what led the Lodge to get behind the appeal.

Sharing what Freemasonry stands for

The cheque was handed over in the Renal Unit’s waiting room. Consultants, nurses and more than twenty patients were there to see it. The visit was also a chance to tell people a little about the charitable side of Freemasonry.

Malcolm Bond spoke briefly about Freemasonry’s values and its long tradition of supporting good causes. He also explained why the Lodge chose the Renal Unit’s appeal. His talk went down well, and it showed how Masonic giving can make a real difference to individuals and their families.

Helping the Unit reach its goal

Hastings Lodge No. 8695 is proud to support the appeal. We hope our donation helps the Renal Unit reach its £75,000 target, so that many more patients and their families can enjoy a well-earned holiday together.