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A team of hospital staff travelled 180 miles across Norfolk by kayak, on foot and by bicycle in just six days, raising money for technology that could change how children with spinal conditions are monitored.
The challenge, known as Spineathlon 2026, raised funds for an appeal to bring advanced spinal imaging equipment to Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. The proposed EOS scanner is designed to produce detailed images of the spine while reducing radiation exposure compared with conventional X-rays. With £660,000 raised towards an £841,000 target, the campaign aims to improve long-term care for children living with scoliosis.
UK hospital team completes six-day fundraising challenge across Norfolk
The challenge, Spineathlon 2026, began on 26 June during Scoliosis Awareness Month. In its second year, the event brought together members of the hospital's spinal surgery team for a journey covering approximately 180 miles, with different forms of travel used across the six-day route.The first stage involved kayaking along the River Yare from Norwich in the direction of Gorleston. The team then continued on foot, travelling from Great Yarmouth to Sea Palling before making their way towards Cromer, Holkham and Hunstanton.
The final section took them by bicycle from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn back to Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.The route connected communities across the county while drawing attention to a fundraising appeal for equipment intended to improve care for children and young people who need regular spinal imaging.Money raised through Spineathlon is supporting the N&N Hospitals Charity's Spinal Appeal.
Its target is an £841,000 EOS imaging system, a specialist scanner designed to produce detailed images of the spine while substantially reducing radiation exposure compared with conventional X-ray imaging.
Why repeated spinal scans matter for children
Scoliosis causes the spine to curve sideways and frequently becomes apparent during childhood or adolescence. Its progression can vary, particularly during periods of rapid growth, so clinicians may need to monitor the shape of the spine over time and assess whether treatment is required.For some young patients, that means returning to hospital for imaging once or twice a year, sometimes more frequently as their condition changes or surgery approaches. Each appointment provides information about the spine's alignment and whether the curve has progressed. The repeated nature of these examinations, however, makes the amount of radiation used an important consideration.Children are more sensitive to radiation than adults, and the cumulative exposure associated with years of monitoring is a concern for patients who require frequent scans.
The hospital hopes the proposed EOS system will help reduce that burden without compromising the information doctors need to make decisions about treatment.Consultant spinal surgeon Tom Marjoram said, ““The EOS system can capture images with around an 80% reduction in radiation exposure, which is hugely significant. Children are more vulnerable to radiation, particularly around sensitive areas such as the abdomen and pelvis, so reducing exposure wherever possible is incredibly important.”
Imaging system the hospital hopes to bring to the region
The proposed scanner would be the first EOS system of its kind in the East of England, according to the hospital's appeal. Its potential reach extends beyond Norwich, with children from Norfolk and surrounding areas among those who could benefit.Patients with early-onset scoliosis are one group the equipment could help. Their treatment and monitoring may begin at a particularly young age, leaving them facing repeated imaging throughout childhood.
Children whose spinal curves change quickly during growth spurts can also require close observation.The system is intended to give the spinal team clearer information while reducing the radiation involved in obtaining it. Better imaging can help clinicians understand a patient's condition, follow changes and plan interventions where necessary. The hospital's fundraising effort is therefore focused on acquiring a specific piece of clinical equipment rather than supporting a general expansion of services.At £841,000, the target represents a substantial fundraising commitment. The £660,000 raised for the appeal marks considerable progress, although further money is needed before the hospital reaches the full amount required for the system.
How scoliosis affected Scarlett Turrell’s confidence and daily life
Scarlett Turrell, a 19-year-old trainee dental nurse from Lowestoft, has received treatment for scoliosis and has spoken about the experience of being diagnosed and monitored.
Her account illustrates how the condition can affect everyday life as well as lead to repeated hospital appointments.She recalled that clothing became a particular source of insecurity after her diagnosis, with the condition affecting her confidence. The early stages of treatment involved several scans while clinicians assessed her spine. She later attended for monitoring once or twice a year, with appointments becoming more frequent as she approached surgery.For young people, scoliosis can involve more than the medical questions surrounding the degree of curvature and the possibility of an operation. Changes in posture and body shape can influence how they feel about their appearance, while the need for continuing assessments becomes part of their routine. Access to imaging that reduces radiation exposure could address one aspect of that experience, even though it does not remove the need for treatment or follow-up.
Schools and local groups are being asked to help
The N&N Hospitals Charity has encouraged schools, businesses, community organisations and individuals to contribute to the Spinal Appeal. Suggested activities include non-uniform days, bake sales, sponsored events and other local fundraising initiatives.The range of activities means that support need not depend on taking part in a challenge as demanding as Spineathlon. Community groups can organise smaller events, while businesses and individuals can make donations towards the equipment fund.With £660,000 raised against the £841,000 target, the appeal still needs additional contributions to reach its goal. The hospital's six-day journey across Norfolk has helped bring attention to that shortfall and to the needs of children who depend on regular spinal imaging.