Dame Denise Lewis announced as our patron

We’re delighted to announce Olympic gold-winning heptathlete, Dame Denise Lewis as our newest Patron.

Born in West Bromwich, raised in Wolverhampton and member of the Birchfield Harriers Club in Birmingham, Dame Denise is a proud Midlander through and through.

From Olympic gold to Damehood

She has won numerous medals throughout her career, including silver at the World Championships and becoming Commonwealth and European Champion. She picked up a bronze medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, before reaching the pinnacle of her career when she won gold at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. She was awarded a damehood in the 2023 New Year’s Honours list for her services to sport and is currently serving as President of UK Athletics.

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Strengthening our mission through the power of sport

As Patron, Dame Denise will help to shine a spotlight on us and our sister hospital and charity, Birmingham Women’s Hospital and Charity, and the incredible work our staff do to improve the lives of the women, children and families they care for – regionally, nationally and internationally. By raising awareness of our charity, she will help it secure the much-needed funds it requires to provide the best treatment and care possible, helping to transform the lives of our patients.

Plus, with more than 10 per cent of our annual income raised by ‘eventers’ – who take on challenges, including 10k races, marathons and treks – Dame Denise’s affiliation with the sporting world makes her a natural fit with our charity, likely inspiring the public to participate in more of these events.

Mark Brider, CEO of Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital Charity, said:

“We’re truly honoured to welcome Dame Denise as our newest Patron. She’s been a proud representative of the Midlands for her whole career and is the perfect fit with our organisation, thanks to her passion for women’s and children’s health, as well as her dedication towards developing opportunities for the youth of today.”

“Dame Denise is someone who has won the highest accolades available in her sport, constantly striving to push herself and be the best there is. We share this ambition with her – always wanting to do more for our patients and continually pushing boundaries in terms of treatment, care and world-leading research. We look forward to seeing what we can achieve together.”

Our growing family of patrons

The announcement of Dame Denise as the newest Patron, comes just months after Brummie presenter Emma Willis was also announced as Patron. They both join Ben Francis, CEO and Founder of apparel-brand Gymshark, as the hospitals and charity’s second and third Patron.

Dame Denise said

“I’m so honoured to accept this Patronage. I’ve had the privilege of visiting the hospitals, meeting with staff and learning about their incredible work, as well as hearing from patients and families about their experiences and what makes it such a special place. It’s always truly inspiring.