News From The Elm Tree

Ringwood Rallies Round to Bring Sam Home

COMMUNITY RALLIES TO “BRING SAM HOME” WITH MAJOR FUNDRAISING EVENTS

The Ringwood community has come together in an extraordinary show of support for the “Bring Sam Home” campaign, helping raise funds for 23-year-old Sam Wheeler following a devastating traumatic brain injury.

Sam, from Ringwood, suffered a life-changing brain injury after a fall, requiring emergency surgery and ongoing specialist treatment. He is currently undergoing neurorehabilitation in London while his family faces the enormous challenge of adapting his home and funding the specialist equipment and support needed for his long-term recovery.

In response, the campaign has already raised almost £40,000 towards its £80,000 target, with local businesses, pubs, friends and residents uniting behind a growing programme of fundraising events and endurance challenges.

Community events already held include a hugely successful quiz night at The Fish Inn, with further fundraising quizzes planned at The Cellar and The Railway.

Close friends and supporters are also taking on major physical challenges in Sam’s name. Plans include the demanding Three Peaks Challenge, which will see Sam’s sister and friends climb the UK’s three highest mountains dressed as Spider-Man to raise funds and awareness.

Another major fundraiser will see local lads Ben Cook and David Edmunds undertake an epic London-to-Ringwood run — a powerful demonstration of determination, resilience and solidarity with Sam’s recovery journey.

On June 20, The Elm Tree, Tithe Barn will host a special DnB Day Rave starting at 2pm in Sam’s honour. A keen amateur DJ himself, the event will celebrate Sam’s love of music while bringing the community together to continue raising vital funds.

The campaign has rapidly become far more than a fundraiser, uniting businesses, friends and families across the New Forest. Companies including Churchill Retirement Living are supporting through fund matching, while Cinergi, Sam’s employer, will also take on an additional Three Peaks Challenge in September.

Rhi Wheeler, Sam’s sister, who is leading the campaign, said:

“Every donation, event attendance and shared post continues to make a difference. The support from the community has been incredible and we simply cannot thank everyone enough. So many people have gone above and beyond for us — Will Wallace, Bonny Greenfield and Archie Smith, you know what you have done for our family, thank you.”

Anyone wishing to support the campaign or get involved can find more information at:

www.bringsamhome.com

Any business or individual that would like to get in touch with Rhi or the team please contact them via the website or email address.

bringsamhomefund@gmail.com

ends – 18th May 2026

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