Star from Strictly dances with children at Acorns
A star from TV’s Strictly Come Dancing paid a fab-u-lous visit to Acorns Children’s Hospice giving youngsters and families the cha-cha-chance to dance. Luba Mushtuk, a professional dancer from the famous BBC show, stopped off at Acorns in Birmingham to tour the hospice and learn about its outstanding care for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.
Luba said she was inspired to visit after dancing in the Strictly Christmas Special with EastEnders star Nicholas Bailey, who is an ambassador for the charity.
“The moment I stepped inside, it was just full of beautiful and colourful things,” Luba said. “I saw how incredible the nurses are who work with the children and families. You can feel the love, the joy and how much heart everyone puts into what they do.”
Luba added: “Touring the hospice was very emotional, but at the same time everyone is working to create wonderful memories, and it was so moving, not only in a sad way but in a way where it’s so humbling and beautiful, and so human.”
The dancer got to look behind the scenes at the vital medical care that the hospice provides, its range of services for symptom management, rehabilitative respite, and emergency and end-of-life care.
She later held a musical dancing session with children, siblings and parents, who also enjoyed a host of fun afternoon activities.
Luba said: “Dance is for everyone regardless of disability. I create choreography for people who dance with their arms, their feet, or whatever connects them to the music. You can express yourself in any way you can, and I think it’s beautiful.”
She added: “I believe dancing is something very important for all humans. You can connect with yourself, with others, with the music, and when you do you can forget about worries outside.”
Anna DeRosa, Philanthropy Manager at Acorns, said: “We were absolutely thrilled that Luba took the time to come into Acorns and share her incredible energy with children and families.
“Her visit not only created magical memories, be she helped shine a glittering light on the vital work our care teams do every day.”
Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions, and support for their families.
In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 800 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,100 families, including those who are bereaved. This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.
Acorns needs around £40,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with more than 75% of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community and income from its charity shops.
