Back of the net - Kind hearted cancer patient and Wolverhampton football team set goal to put smiles of children's faces at Christmas
A cancer patient has vowed to “put smiles on children’s faces” with the support of his Wolverhampton football club by organising a toy appeal for youngsters in a city hospital.
Robbie Meakin, club ambassador for AFC Wolverhampton City, is working with its supporters to collect toys and games to be donated to New Cross Hospital’s Children’s Ward in time for Christmas.
He has set up donation points at a host of home fixtures at the club’s ground at Castlecroft Stadium in the run up to the festive period.
Robbie explained: "I've spent a lot of time in hospital this year as I was diagnosed with stage four cancer of the colon and liver and I've spent hours having chemotherapy. I've had a couple of surgeries, I've been poked and prodded and had scans galore. It really gets you down.
“Despite how amazing the staff are, nobody wants to be in hospital and with Christmas coming up I couldn't help but think of the children that will be spending their time in hospital over the festive period. Time that should be spent with family and friends, at home, enjoying the magic of the season.
“I'm no Santa Claus but I decided to do something that will put smiles on faces of those on the children's ward this Christmas and the club were more than happy to get on board.
"I really hope people get behind what we're trying to do, and we end up with bags upon bags full of toys and games to bring down with us to spread joy to the children and make their time in hospital that little bit better."
Amanda Winwood, charity development manager for The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust’s Your RWTC charity, said this kind gesture would be welcomed by patients and their families.
She said: “Robbie is right – being in hospital in the run up to Christmas or on the big day itself can be really difficult for children and young people and donations such as this can really help cheer them up. Thank you to AFC Wolverhampton City and to everyone who supports this initiative,.
Donations will be accepted at fixtures leading up to Christmas - entrance to the matches isn't required as toys and games can be left at the gate or at reception, for the attention of Robbie Meakin or Clive Morris.
October 28 v Birmingham OJM – 7.45pm kick off
November 8 v Winsford United - 3pm kick off
November 12 v Dudley Athletic – 7.45pm kick off
November 22 v Coton Green - 3pm kick off
November 29 v Stourport Swifts - 3pm kick off
People can also contact Robbie via email robbie.afcwc@gmail.com if they want to find out more about making a donation.
