After losing his wife Marlene to Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in 2024, volunteering at George Eliot Hospital has helped Les Jenkins rediscover a sense of purpose, friendship and hope for the future.
Now, Les is taking on a new challenge to give something back to the hospital community that has supported him so much. On Saturday 25 July, he will take part in the Coventry Inflatable 5K Run in aid of George Eliot Hospital Charity’s 30 for 30 campaign.
Les began volunteering at George Eliot Hospital in September 2025 as a way of rebuilding his social life following the loss of his wife. Since then, he has become a valued member of the volunteer team and says the experience has had a huge impact on his life.
Les said “I am proud to be taking part in Coventry Inflatable 5K Run alongside many other volunteers.”
Fundraising and supporting George Eliot Hospital Charity has long been important to Les and his family. Over the years, both Les and Marlene took part in sponsored walks to support the charity.
Les has also faced further personal challenges after his son was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of just 39. Despite everything his family has been through, Les remains determined to support his local NHS hospital.
Les added “Volunteering at the Hospital has given me hope for my future. I have met lots of lovely people, been made to feel part of something and I want to give back as a way of saying thank you to everyone.”
To sponsor Les and the George Eliot Hospital volunteer team, please visit the Volunteers JustGiving page – https://www.justgiving.com/page/gehvolunteers.
George Eliot Hospital Charity’s 30 for 30 campaign is encouraging supporters to take on fundraising challenges and activities as part of the charity’s milestone celebrations.
To find out more about the 30 for 30 campaign, visit – https://www.gehcharity.org/30-for-30-campaign/.