Fundraising held in memory of Elin Ludgate supports chemo and special care baby units
A SERIES of community whist drives organised across Carmarthenshire has raised an impressive £5,252 for Glangwili Hospital.
The fundraising effort was led by Cllr Tyssul Evans, who arranged six events in memory of his friend Elin Ludgate, who sadly passed away on St David’s Day in 2025 aged 31.
In line with the wishes of Elin’s family, the funds have been split equally between two services that supported her – the Chemotherapy Day Unit and the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) at Glangwili Hospital.
Cllr Evans said he applied for support from Carmarthenshire County Council to help cover the cost of hosting the events.
“Following the sad passing of a young friend, Mrs Elin Ludgate, I decided to seek a grant from Carmarthenshire County Council to sponsor the holding of a series of whist drives across our County,” he said.
“Elin was treated at the Chemotherapy Unit at Glangwili and gave birth to a baby just two months prior to her sad passing also at Glangwili Hospital.
“We were granted £1,000 from the council which enabled myself and numerous friends to get on with raising funds for the two units.”
The six whist drives were held at Pontiets Hall, Llangadog Hall, Llanddeusant Hall, Brechfa Hall, Cwrt Henri and Cwmifor Hall.
Cllr Evans thanked the council for covering venue costs and praised the volunteers who helped make the events possible.
Alex Tipping, Ward Manager on the SCBU, said: “We would like to express our heartfelt thanks for your incredible generosity in raising money for the Special Care Baby Unit at Glangwili General Hospital.
“We are truly grateful that you chose to support our unit. Your kindness will make a meaningful difference to the babies and families we care for.”
Jessica Michael, Senior Sister on the Chemotherapy Unit, added: “On behalf of the staff and patients at the Chemotherapy Day Unit at Glangwili Hospital, I would like to thank you for your fundraising efforts resulting in a very generous donation.
“This money will go towards improving the environment and the way we care for patients within the Chemotherapy Day Unit.”
Claire Rumble, Fundraising Officer, said: “A huge thank you to Cllr Tyssul Evans for such an incredible effort in raising funds in Elin’s memory.
“The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”
For more information about Hywel Dda Health Charities and how to support local NHS patients and staff, visit www.hywelddahealthcharities.org.uk.
