Santa and some of his reindeer took time out of their busy pre-Christmas schedule to bring a smile to patients at Walsall Manor Hospital.
Patients, their relatives and staff on the Children’s Ward enjoyed a surprise visit from two reindeer and Santa as well as the chance to take part in arts and crafts, a story time session and balloon modelling.
Children attending Outpatient appointments were also invited to come along and Santa paid a special visit to the Emergency Department and Paediatric Assessment Unit.
The visit, which was arranged by Walsall Healthcare Trust’s Well Wishers charity and saw the Mayor and Mayoress of Walsall in attendance, lifted patients’ spirits and spread some early seasonal cheer.
Three-year-old Alfie Harman had been on the Children’s Ward for three days due to abnormal kidneys.
His mum Elizabeth Churchill said: “It’s been magical for the children; the staff have made a huge effort, and I can’t thank them enough.
“The real reindeer has to be the best bit, and my son has been really poorly, so it’s been really nice for him.”
The “Month Before Christmas” extravaganza was supported by the Phoenix Children’s Foundation Charity.
Walsall Healthcare’s Portering and Support Services helped with the set up and care of the reindeer on site and Vibrant Networks, an IT company, brought a large amount of goodies along.
Amrik Singh, from Vibrant Networks, said: “I think the event has been great and it has been nice to see where our donation has gone. We really enjoy supporting the hospital and our local charity Well Wishers.”
Councillor Anthony Harris, Mayor of Walsall, described the event as ‘superb’.
He added: “Well Wishers is one of the charities I support. I have met some wonderful kids today, wonderful parents and amazing staff members, and it has been great to see so many smiling faces.”
Emma Lester, Play Specialist on the Children’s Ward, said: “The children have loved it. We are so grateful to Amrik and Vibrant Networks for the support they have given us to do this event and
having the reindeer come on to the ward has made it so special. I want to thank everyone who has helped make the event possible.”
Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager, said: “What an absolutely amazing day. We love it when a plan comes together, and what a plan it was!
“From reindeer to Santa, a craft room and balloon modelling, it was a jam-packed day for our young patients who all came away with a smile and a memory. Thank you to the teams who helped pull this together, it really has started our Christmas activities with a bang.”