In 2004, Stuart was diagnosed with a serious blood disorder and underwent chemotherapy and a bone marrow graft at King’s College Hospital in London. During his stay, Stuart noticed that the hospital ward was lacking some of the small creature-comforts for patients, especially those staying in isolation rooms.
Knowing that sometimes even the smallest things can make the biggest difference to other patients like him, Stuart harnessed the support of friends and family to help the ward provide additional items such as a small fridge for keeping drinks cool, support rings to ease discomfort in bed, and TV aerial leads for the TVs that were missing cables.
Stuart was on the road to recovery when sadly he suffered a brain haemorrhage and died suddenly, one day short of his 39th birthday.
Stuart's mission to improve the patient experience is what inspired his friends to fundraise for King's College Hospital Charity and continue Stuart's legacy.
This years' golf day was the 18th time the group have held the event, and the 18th time gameplay stopped to raise a glass and toast to their dear friend.
To date, they have raised £21,150 which has been donated to the Derek Mitchell Unit and Davidson Ward at King's, where Stuart was treated.
