Tom Fernandez, a 65-year-old nurse from Camden Town who has spent more than three decades at the forefront of HIV care, is set to participate in the London Summer Walk this August. The event, scheduled for August 22, will see him cover 25 kilometers across the capital to raise funds for the Ian Charleson Day Centre (ICDC), a fund within the Royal Free Charity. This walk marks the centre's 35th year of service and aims to support the charity's ongoing work in delivering care to over 3,000 people living with HIV.
A Career Dedicated to HIV Care
Tom has been a part of the ICDC since it first opened its doors, making him one of the longest-serving HIV nurses in the country. His career has spanned a transformative era in HIV treatment, witnessing significant advancements in how the condition is managed. In June, his dedication was recognized when he was awarded HIV Nurse of the Year by the National HIV Nurses Association, an honor he described as one of the greatest moments of his life.
Reflecting on his journey, Tom said: "I've worked at the Ian Charleson Day Centre (ICDC) since it opened more than 30 years ago, and it has been a phenomenal part of my career. It's an incredible privilege to see how HIV care has evolved during that time, and I'm so proud of what we offer."
Fundraising for Enhanced Patient Support
Tom's fundraising efforts have already surpassed £10,000, with the goal of enabling the Royal Free Charity to enhance services for patients. The funds will support initiatives such as research that advances HIV care, therapy dogs, and volunteer support. "I'm fundraising for the Royal Free Charity so that, with their funding and support, together we can improve things even further for patients," he added.
His commitment to the cause is deeply personal. Before joining the ICDC, Tom worked in emergency care and volunteered with Terrence Higgins Trust, supporting people living with HIV in their homes. His current role is split between clinical care and research, and he has been involved in numerous clinical trials that have helped develop and evaluate new HIV treatments, many of which are now routinely used across the NHS.
Overcoming Setbacks to Give Back
Last year, Tom fractured his sacrum and broke several ribs, which led him to choose the 25km Ultra Challenge walk as his next fundraising endeavor, given his inability to engage in high-impact exercise. "At 65, I feel fit and healthy, I hope my experience shows that setbacks don't have to stop you doing something positive," he said. "It also helps me relate to patients who are recovering from injury themselves."
The London Summer Walk, organized by Ultra Challenge Series, offers 10k, 25k, and marathon distance options, featuring iconic views such as the Royal Arsenal, Tower Bridge, and the Thames Flood Barrier. Entries for the 2026 and 2027 events are now open, with more information available at www.ultrachallenge.com/london-summer-walk.
Tom's fundraising page, where donations can be made, is accessible at www.justgiving.com/page/tom-fernandez-1763040170224, and his efforts will directly benefit the Ian Charleson Day Centre's continued provision of world-class care to those living with HIV.
