The head of the Trust’s hospital charity is asking for a little “help from his friends” when he runs the Birmingham 10K on Sunday – while strumming his guitar.
For Johnny Shah, who runs Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals’ Your Trust Charity, will pound the streets of the city whilst playing and singing along to classic Beatles tunes.
Johnny will be playing the super group’s songs to promote and raise money for ‘singing medicine’, the award-winning EX Cathedra initiative which will be adopted by the Trust’s charity to support activities for patients and the local community through music.
Dad-of-two Johnny, 38, explained: “Medical evidence suggests that singing can greatly enhance health and well-being and speed recovery and rehabilitation for patients. Following a successful performance by Westminster School at Rowley Regis Hospital just before Christmas, Your Trust Charity would like to support ‘singing medicine’ initiatives across our Trust.”
He’ll also be dressed up as one of the Fab Four when he embarks on his run as well as playing hits from the Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club album. The hospital Trust’s chief executive Toby Lewis will also be taking part in the event – but won’t be bringing his guitar.
It’s not the first time super fit Johnny has taken his guitar on his running travels.
He said: “Although I will never win a Brit Award, I enjoy playing my guitar and I love the Beatles. This will be the last outing for my guitar having taken it on a half marathon and the London Marathon in the past. So if anything, I’m sure those who come along to support us will at least be able to have a laugh and be entertained.”
- To sponsor Johnny go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/lasthurrahchallenge. If you are up to taking part in a half marathon, Your Trust Charity still have places available for the Birmingham Half Marathon on 15 October. To find out more email: trustcharity@nhs.net.