The team runs the Derby 10K and pushes the dialysis machine into “Duggy”

A team of six hospital staff ran the Derby 10K and pushed the 70kg (154lb) dialysis machine.

The old machine, called the “Dougie,” was used to raise awareness of kidney failure at the event on Sunday and fund a new caravan in North Wales for dialysis patients.

The Royal Derby Hospital Renal Dialysis Unit is a fundraising to replace the Caravan. This allows patients to continue dialysis during their holidays.

“It took an hour and a minute, and it was really amazing. I think Dougie wanted to be faster, so he pulled us closer,” said Chris Swan, 45, a member of the team who attended the event.

Swan, a home therapy trainer, has been working in the unit for over 30 years.

“The crowd really pushed us forward and gave us support. It was over before we knew it.”

Dialysis is the procedure that removes waste and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys stop functioning properly.

The group is raising funds for the Derby and Burton Hospital charities, which also fund current caravans.

They aim to raise between £60,000 and £80,000 for their new caravan.

Carol Rhodes, 54, said she was the home therapy lead who ran with Dougie.

“Most of them stay on the scene and then our staff will do dialysis and dialysis on the holidays.”

Ms. Rhodes, who has worked with the dialysis squad for more than 35 years, says she is keen to do extra things to help patients.

“We want our patients to live the best possible life,” she added. “Holidays are part of supporting dialysis patients.

“The caravan we have now is nearing the end of its lifespan.

“The new thing we want will be a little bigger and a little better with a better facility for patients to use.”