At a time when right-wing and far-right manufacture negative stories about Muslims, here’s one they’re unlikely to cover — Muslims in West Yorkshire raised £170,000 to support the development of a new MRI suite for their local community.

While some media outlets are busy creating outrage over the NHS Muslim Staff Network— staff networks representing different faith groups and other interest groups are normal in the NHS— this story shows how Muslims give back to the NHS.

A local community network and campaign, Muslims for MRI, raised the money to support MY Hospitals Charity’s MRI Appeal, smashing the original £150,000.

The network includes 60 local mosques, businesses, charities, and individuals from across Wakefield and Dewsbury.

The funds have supported the completion of a new MRI suite at Pinderfields Hospital, part of the Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust.

The MRI Appeal aims to improve diagnostic services by funding advanced MRI technology to reduce waiting times and improve patient outcomes across the region.

The GoFundMe page for the appeal said that the representatives from different mosques and the wider community came together to see how the Muslim community could contribute. “It was agreed that we ALL need to work together and contribute for the benefit of the whole community,” said the page.

“True example of community generosity”

A celebratory event was held at the hospital with members of Muslims for MRI.

The attendees were given a guided tour of the newly completed and now operational MRI suite, which was made possible in part thanks to their fundraising efforts.

The group saw a commemorative plaque that will be installed on the Suite in honour of their generosity and commitment to improving local healthcare services.

Keith Ramsay, Chair of MY Hospitals Charity and Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust said; “We are incredibly grateful to all those involved in the Muslims for MRI campaign for their outstanding support.

“Their efforts have directly contributed to the creation of a modern, efficient MRI suite that will benefit thousands of patients each year. This is a true example of community generosity making a tangible difference.”

Mr Iqbal Bhana for Muslims for MRI shared; “We are humbled and proud to support such an important cause. This project brought people together from all walks of life to support the NHS, and it’s a moment of pride for our community to see the results of that unity and compassion.”

“An opening ceremony took place earlier this month to showcase the new MRI suite at Pinderfields which is now operational, delivering faster, more accurate diagnostic imaging to patients, and standing as a testament to the power of community-driven support.”

Image source: Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust