From one family’s experience to a lasting difference

Sometimes, the greatest and most enduring acts of kindness begin with simply recognising a genuine need

When Sam, the son of Ian Watson, Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals (APGP) was admitted to Terling Ward at Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford after waking one morning paralysed from the neck down, his family faced an unimaginably difficult time. As Sam gradually regained movement in his arms and upper body, he was eager to spend some time outside the ward and enjoy a breath of fresh air as part of his recovery.

There was just one obstacle.

Terling Ward had no dedicated wheelchairs. Every outing depended on requesting one from elsewhere in the hospital, often resulting in a wait of between 30 and 60 minutes before a porter could deliver one.

Having witnessed the issue first-hand, Ian Watson shared his experience with John March, Charity Steward of Saint Cedd Lodge No. 6519 that meets at the Upminster Masonic Centre. Together, they recognised that a simple solution could make a meaningful difference to patients and their families. The idea was brought before the Lodge and, with the support of its members and the Province’s match funding scheme, funding was secured to purchase not one, but two NHS-approved wheelchairs for Terling Ward.

The wheelchairs were formally presented to the hospital by Ian Watson and the Worshipful Master (WM) of Saint Cedd Lodge, Guy Wade. The ward team were delighted to receive them and immediately designated them for the ward’s exclusive use, ensuring they would always be readily available for patients when needed.

The impact was almost immediate.

Before long, one of the wheelchairs was being used by an elderly gentleman to take his wife outside for a breath of fresh air and a welcome change of scenery. It was a simple but moving sight that perfectly captured the purpose behind the donation and demonstrated how even a modest act of generosity can have a profound effect on people’s lives.

The donation was so warmly received that it was featured in the ward’s own newsletter, recognising the generosity shown and the positive difference the wheelchairs will make for patients and visitors alike.

This is another inspiring example of Essex Freemasons identifying a genuine need and responding with practical compassion. By turning one family’s difficult experience into positive action, Saint Cedd Lodge has created a lasting difference that will benefit countless patients and their loved ones for years to come.

Ian Watson said: “When you’re sitting beside your son in hospital, your only concern is his recovery. Discovering that patients regularly faced long waits for a wheelchair was frustrating, but it also presented an opportunity to help. Thanks to the generosity of Saint Cedd Lodge and the Province’s match funding scheme, we hope these wheelchairs will make the experience just a little easier for many families in the future.”

Photo: L-R WM of Saint Cedd Lodge, Guy Wade with some of the Terling Ward team and APGP Ian Watson

Footnote: The Southend and Essex Masonic Welfare Trust (SEMWT) have been supporting Essex Freemasons and their families since 1974 by providing wheelchairs and other health-related equipment on a free loan basis. This valuable service helps those recovering from surgery or managing illness to maintain their independence and comfort. Further information about SEMWT and its services can be found at: https://essexfreemasons.org.uk/about/clubs/semwt