Walsall Manor Hospital bring Christmas cheer to Children's Ward with visit from Santa and his reindeers
Young patients on the Children’s Ward at Walsall Manor Hospital were visited by Santa Claus and two reindeer for the festive Christmas tree lights switch on.
The reindeer, Mistletoe and Michael, organised through Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Well Wishers charity as part of its Festive Fridays, brought the Christmas cheer to the children, while each patient was able to have a special passport stamped that saw them enjoy a storytelling session courtesy of the Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Louise Harrison, and the chance to add a decoration to the tree as well as a host of other activities.
They also received a special goodie bag thanks to regular charity supporter Amrik Singh, Managing Director of Vibrant Networks, who donated them.
He said: “We enjoy supporting a local charity where we can see for ourselves the difference our donations make – that’s important.”
Alfie Croydon, a seven-year-old patient who is currently being treated for nephrotic syndrome, said: “It has been really good, my favourite part was sitting in Santa’s sleigh, and I really liked meeting Mistletoe and Michael.”
Councillor Louise Harrison later made her way into the hospital’s main atrium to join patients, visitors and staff for the all-important Christmas tree lights switch-on event.
Great Barr Brass Band spread the feelgood factor with a medley of seasonal tunes and visitors could browse stalls offering handcrafted items and Christmas present ideas.
The Mayor said: “It’s absolutely fantastic to be here.
“The hospital is such a special place at this time of year when Christmas can be hard for patients. You are not only healing their bodies – you are lifting their spirits. A real big thank you to all the Doctors, Nurses, Healthcare Assistants, Porters, cooks, cleaners, security staff, admin staff and volunteers for all you do.”
Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager, said: “Christmas has officially started now! We’ve had such a wonderful day, and it has been so lovely to see the smiles on everyone’s faces.
“Thank you to everyone who got our Festive Fridays off to such a great start and safe journey home for Michael and Mistletoe.”
