Fun-runners raise funds for patients

Hundreds of private hospital workers stepped up to the challenge of the world's largest fun run in August.

Sydney Adventist Hospital's San Steppers team raised both their heart rates and a sizeable sum for cancer services as they completed the 2023 City2Surf event.

The 22-strong contingent joined nearly 80,000 people in taking part – dancing, strolling and jogging their way from the Sydney CBD to Bondi Beach.

Their efforts in making it to the end of the 14-kilometre distance raised over $14,000 for the San Foundation, which helps fund services and programs at New South Wales' largest private hospital.

"It was great to walk side by side with staff members from so many different parts of the hospital – physicians and nurses walking alongside hospital executives, all stepping up to support our colleagues providing world-class care to cancer patients at the San," said Judy Tanna, the foundation's managing director.

"We are planning for an even bigger team next year, and are hoping more staff members are keen to sign up to be a San Stepper."

Meanwhile, more than 300 staff and doctors from Australia's largest private hospitals operator, Ramsay Health Care, took part in the event.

The group's Australia CEO, Carmel Monaghan, paid tribute to the participants, who came from its facilities inBrisbane, Gold Coast, Port Macquarie, Lake Macquarie, Sydney, Wollongong and Melbourne.

"Great turnouts once again from Lake Macquarie and Wollongong Private Hospitals and, this time, a great contingent from the John Flynn Private ICU!" Ms Monaghan said.

"Thanks to everyone for making this day special once again, including Anthony Turri (our fabulous masseuse-in-charge) and super organisers – Alison Stewart and Amanda Cooling.

"Congratulations to Dr Ben Walters, Pindara and John Flynn ED Director, for his fabulous 54 minutes! See you all next year."

Read more: Blessing for San's new heart system

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