Bassetlaw: Help lose weight and raise money for charity as part of Shedtember campaign

Launching Shedtember are (from left): Sharon Hall, Jasmine Jayamanne, Mike Pinkerton (chief executive of Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals), Dr Gerry Jayamanne, Tracy Lowe

A doctor who works for Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals has set up an annual campaign to encourage people to lose weight for charity during September.

Called Shedtember, the campaign was officially launched by Gerry Jayamanne and his daughter Jasmine.

This annual campaign will take place every September to encourage people to get fit and lose weight while supporting charities like Diabetes UK and the Daniel Williams Foundation.

Dr Jayamanne, a consultant eye surgeon, said: “Shedtember first started as a novel idea to raise money for charity. “

“A lot of people want to get fit and shed a few pounds after the summer.”

“Shedtember hopes to encourage them to join in and pledge to lose weight and help others by raising money for charity.”

“It’s about shedding pounds and raising money for charity.”

As a medical consultant , Dr Jayamanne has first-hand experience of health problems caused by diabetes and unhealthy diets.

Following in the footsteps of her father, Jasmine Jayamanne shares the same passion for charity fund-raising and making a difference to people’s lives.

Dr Jayamanne is also keen to promote access to psychology and psychiatry services for young people with diabetes and their families.

“I am aware of the impact diabetes can have on the health and wellbeing of young people,” he continued.

“I decided to tell the tragic story of Daniel Williams a young man with diabetes who tragically took his own life aged just 24.”

“You can read Dan’s story on to the Shedtember website at www.shedtember.org.uk.”

Supporters of Shedtember also include South Tees Hospitals and NHS West & South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw Commissioning support unit, and Diet Chef.

Watch Dr Jayamanne and his daughter Jasmine as launch Shedtember on Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/channel/UCO6HnkDCBciqT-oXS5dpFGg.