YOUNG PATIENTS CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS AT SPECIAL PARTY
Young patients with cancer and chronic health issues, along with their family and friends, recently enjoyed a lively Christmas party with a wide range of fun activities thanks to our partnership with Newcastle United Foundation.
Providing valued support for young patients all year round at the Great North Children’s Hospital in Newcastle, where children from across the North East and beyond come for specialist treatment, the children’s support project is funded by our Foundation and The Great North Children’s Hospital’s charitable fund, which is also part of Newcastle Hospitals Charity.
It offers patients respite throughout their treatment, encouraging them to play, laugh, learn and stay active alongside their siblings and family members, keeping youngsters engaged and helping them maintain and grow in self-confidence during and after long days spent in hospital.
As well as engaging on the wards, the project enables young patients to enjoy sport and family activities outside hospital wherever possible.
This year’s Christmas party was held at NUCASTLE, the home of Newcastle United Foundation, and included facepainting, the chance to play musical instruments – provided by music therapy charity, Nordoff and Robbins – a giant inflatable snow globe, racing reindeer games, arts and crafts, balloon art and, of course, a visit from Santa!
Parent and carer feedback for the party was hugely positive, and the event provided an escape from medical issues and allowed the children to get involved and simply enjoy themselves.
“Every single member of staff at the event went above and beyond. They were welcoming, helpful and kind from start to finish. They look real time out to interact with my children and were equally as friendly with me too.”
“Seeing my child fit in and belong to a community I’ve so desperately looking for. Thank you.”
“Thank you so much for inviting Archie. He’s going to miss out on everything this year with being in hospital until January. This gave him a chance to do something Christmassy like a normal child and I haven’t seen him smile like that in so long. Tell Santa thank you for seeing these kids who can’t go to school parties or Christmas events due to being in hospital. Thank you so much.”
“Fantastic event to allow children who have a tough time a chance to be normal and have fun.”
