About me
My name is Nicola, and I’m a Year 12 student aspiring to become a doctor. I’m passionate about giving back to the medical community, recognising the dedication and hard work of doctors.
That’s why I decided to organize a hospital hop fundraiser, asking a few friends to join me in raising money for the Royal Medical Benevolent Fund (RMBF) — a charity that supports doctors, medical students and their families in need.
Why I wanted to fundraise for the RMBF
When I discovered the challenge to raise over £200 (with the chance to win a gift card, certificates, and a goody bag), I was immediately interested! I found out about this opportunity over the Christmas holiday, and it seemed like the perfect way to do something meaningful while also keeping myself busy.
More importantly, I decided to choose to fundraise for the RMBF because they provide not only financial aid but also mental health support to doctors, which I believe is just as important.
Why I decided on the hospital hop
I’ve always loved walking, so a hospital hop felt like a great way to combine my passion with fundraising. We started from Imperial school of medicine and finished at St Bart’s hospital.
It gave me the chance to explore areas of London I had never walked through before, opening my perspective on just how grand the city is.
Originally, our planned route was supposed to take 1 hour and 30 minutes, but with so many photo stops and a few wrong turns, it ended up lasting an hour longer.
Despite this, it was an incredible experience, and we were thrilled to exceed our fundraising goal, raising £633.75 instead of our initial £500 target! Knowing that all the money was going to such a meaningful cause made it all the more rewarding.
What I enjoyed about the experience
One of the best parts of the walk was seeing iconic landmarks along the way—Buckingham Palace, Wellington Arch, St. James’ Palace, and even the London Eye! I enjoyed the weather during the walk – it was cold but sunny so the walk through London was beautiful.
And of course, after the hospital hop, we treated ourselves to a well-earned McDonald’s—nothing beats a burger and fries after a long walk!
What I would like to say to other aspiring medical students
If you’re thinking about fundraising, go for it! It is such a fun and memorable experience and so worth it – it’s a great way to take a break from your school work to do something you enjoy whilst also making a real impact on the medical community!
You’ll create lasting memories, gain valuable experience, and support an important cause, all at the same time!
Thank you, Nicola for all your fundraising. You’re helping provide crucial financial support to doctors and medical students going through times of real hardship.