The Hampshire Medical Fund has acquired a lower limb weights machine for Alton Community Hospital funded by Alton Lions Club.

It is designed to improve rehabilitation treatment for a diverse range of patients, including amputees, people recuperating from lower limb injuries, and those undergoing knee or hip rehabilitation.

Musculoskeletal team lead Lucy Fitchet said: “Patients appreciate the addition of this piece of kit, and we have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from both patients and staff in the physiotherapy department. Within the first month alone we've had the privilege of assisting around 50 patients with the leg press."

“This equipment expands our treatment repertoire, enabling us to provide a more holistic care approach to patients. It allows for progress monitoring and facilitates tailored rehabilitation plans, which are indispensable in our commitment to patient well-being.

“At the moment we predominantly have cardiovascular equipment and this is our first bit of fantastic strength kit that we can offer our patients.”

Alton Lions Club president Moira Baker is delighted with the impact the machine has already had: “Alton Lions Club is currently celebrating 50 years of serving the local community and this was considered one of the fitting ways in which we could mark the occasion by making a difference to people’s lives.

“The money used to fund the machine came from the Alton Lions Supporters Club and I would like to say a special ‘thank you’ to all those who contribute £1 a month to support us in this way. Their help is invaluable.”

The Hampshire Medical Fund would like to thank Alton Lions Club for its incredible support, emphasising that such initiatives would not be possible without the community's generous contributions.

Anyone interested in supporting the Hampshire Medical Fund's mission or contributing to other medical equipment can make a donation at www.hampshiremedicalfund.org