Crocheted Drawstring Bag for Charity: Cancer Support Gifts

🎗️ What does MAD (Make and Donate) do?

Lesley founded MAD (Make and Donate) to give back to Peterborough City Hospital’s cancer units and bring comfort to those undergoing treatment. Her efforts include:

• Organising community fundraising events
  From pyjama parties and curry nights to bake sales and raffles, Lesley has brought people together to raise money and awareness for cancer care.

• Purchasing essential hospital equipment
  Thanks to MAD’s fundraising, the hospital has received items such as reclining chairs for families, fridges for patient rooms, syringe drivers, drip stands, microwave and drug trolleys—improving the experience for both patients and staff. Latest project was the relatives room on the oncology ward...

• Creating care bags for chemotherapy patients
  Lesley assembles thoughtful “care packs” filled with essentials like lip balm, hand gel, tissues, sweets, heat packs, puzzle books, and a handwritten letter of encouragement. These personal touches offer comfort during a difficult time.

❤️ Community & Hospital Impact

• Hospital appreciation
  Staff at Peterborough City Hospital have praised Lesley’s efforts, especially noting the impact of her care bags and equipment donations in improving patient comfort and morale. Her perspective as a former patient brings a unique understanding of what truly helps during treatment.

• Funds raised
  Since starting with just a £200 donation, Lesley has now raised more than £82,000 to support cancer care services—an incredible achievement driven entirely by compassion and community support.

🤝 How to Get Involved

Lesley runs the MAD initiative with the help of friends, family, and local businesses. You can follow and support her work on Facebook:
🔗 Facebook: Make and Donate (Peterborough)

In Summary

Lesley Kalina is a shining example of how one person’s experience can spark real, lasting change. Through MAD (Make and Donate), she’s improved the lives of countless patients and families, providing not only equipment and supplies but also hope, kindness, and comfort during some of life’s toughest moments.

Lesley