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A milestone visit to Hinchingbrooke Hospital’s Eye Clinic has allowed 87-year-old Colin Bedford to focus on the next stage of his fundraising for the Huntingdon service.

Colin previously sustained a badminton injury resulting in a detached retina and is also regularly treated for Diabetic Macular Oedema which requires regular injections to alleviate fluid that filters into the back of his eye. Colin’s 100th eye injection took place recently, 11 years to the day from his initial treatment – to the day!

“Without the eye injection and treatment, I definitely would have lost my sight, so I've always felt that I owe the NHS something”, Colin said, “It has done so much for me, and I couldn't do without them.”

But it’s not only Colin that benefits from this specialist service, the Hinchingbrooke Hospital Sunflower Eye Clinic is busy treating various eye conditions, including 120 injections per week. Hinchingbrooke Hospital’s Ophthalmology Sister, Elizabeth Trewick said: “We’re a busy team working in a complex area, but it’s amazing to see the impact of our work on people’s lives. It’s a privilege to provide care and it’s humbling to help people be independent”.

At the start of the year, Colin decided to do something special to recognise the Sunflower Eye Clinic team and raise funds and awareness of the service: “Even though I've always fundraised, I wanted to give something back after my 100th injection.”

A renowned antique bicycle enthusiast, Colin took to the streets on century old bikes to undertake a sponsored 100 miles, made up of 3-6 mile trips.

Having had his 100th appointment, and now approaching 70 miles of his target, Colin hopes to complete the final push shortly: “I've already raised over £1000, but we can definitely do a little bit more!”

Whilst awaiting his monumental appointment, Colin shared his story, praised the quality of his care, raised awareness of his ongoing fundraising campaign with fellow patients and took photos with ‘his team’. He said: “I want to give my sincerest thanks to all of the teams who have looked after me over the last eleven years.”

Elizabeth said: “Everybody in the team and lots of the local community know Colin. He’s practically famous here! We all love his kind nature, positivity and lovely character, and we’re so grateful for all the support he gives us throughout the years. Thank you, Colin.”

To join Colin in supporting Hinchingbrooke's Eye Clinic, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ColinBedfords100Challenge