A SPECIALIST piece of equipment to help lung patients cope while receiving treatment has been presented to York Hospital.

A new non-invasive ventilator, which helps people who are suffering from respiratory diseases, has been donated to the hospital's lung ward in memory of Anita Wilhelms.

More than £4,000 was raised following her death from lung fibrosis from which she suffered for 11 years. The disease produces scars on the lung's lining, causing an irreversible loss of the tissue's ability to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream. Anita died in October, 2005, following an infection.

Her husband, Christian Klopsteg, of George Street, York, set up The Anita Wilhelms Fund, Challenge For Life with two of Anita's close friends from York, Julie Pierce and Yvonne Walker.

He said he was overwhelmed at the support it had received. The new ventilator for Ward 34 features a plaque bearing the words "In memory of Anita, Challenge For Life, The Anita Wilhelms Fund".

"I can't describe how I feel, how very grateful I am to everyone who donated money," said Christian.

The donations were made at the two funerals to celebrate Anita's life - one in York and the other in her home city of Berlin, in Germany, along with a major contribution from a close friend. Anita had asked mourners to give donations rather than flowers so she could "give something back" after her death.

Another £500 was donated by Breathe Easy, in York, of which Anita was a member.

Christian vowed to continue fundraising: "We are, of course, very keen on continuing in the long-term."

He, along with Julie and Yvonne, are in talks with the Friends Of York Hospital and Ward 34 to find out what else they need, which could be a second machine or a remote-controlled bed.

Other money-spinning plans which are in the pipeline include sponsored head shaves, chest waxes, a disco, raffle, rock concert and pool marathon.

Further details will be reported in the Evening Press nearer the dates.

Helen Byard, chairman of the Friends Of York Hospital, said they were delighted to receive such support from Christian and his friends.

"Friends' fundraisers work throughout the year for York hospitals, and we enthusiastically welcome their initiative for this project."

Updated: 09:37 Monday, April 17, 2006