Cody’s Story

Cody is 11 and came into hospital via A&E because of pains in his abdomen. Earlier that day he had secretly texted his mum, Christine, to say he wasn’t feeling well. He was in maths class, his favourite subject, and that was how Christine knew it must have been serious – Cody hates missing maths.

Whilst in hospital, Cody stayed on Ward 19 for three nights whilst doctors ran tests, trying to find out what was causing his pain. Alongside decorating the special Christmas baubles, Cody really enjoyed playing games with his mum on the ward, the board games helped him to relax and stay entertained whilst waiting for results.

Doctors thought that Cody may have appendicitis but when Cody’s pain subsided, they discharged him, just in time for his baby sisters first birthday party.

It is because of your kind gifts that children like Cody can have such a positive experience in our hospitals. Cody wants to say a big “thank you” for all the home comforts, toys, and activities your donations have helped to provide.

Click here to donate to this years Christmas appeal and make Christmas special for patients in hospital during the festive season.

Liliana’s Story

Liliana is seven years old and has been in hospital for a few months now. At first, Lili didn’t want to let the doctors and nurses give her treatment, she didn’t like all the needles and just wanted to be left alone. However, thanks to the amazing work of the team on Ward 11 Lili is now a lot more relaxed.

It’s thanks to the creative support of play specialists like Jane, that Lili began to relax and come out of her shell. Now she can express her worries and concerns – like how she doesn’t like big needles! Staff reassure her that they don’t use big needles on little children, this calms Lili and helps her to be brave. She even watches the needle when it’s time for her blood test. Not like her Daddy who gets wobbly knees and has to look away, this really makes Lili laugh.

These calming conversations happen in a relaxed setting whilst Lili is doing some of her favourite things, like painting. She even likes to make get well cards for the other poorly children on the ward and thoroughly enjoyed decorating the special Christmas baubles this year. Lili also has a naughty elf to keep her company. He’s not very good with needles either, but his silly antics give Lili plenty of stories to keep everyone around her smiling.

Most importantly, Lili’s mum is able to stay right by her side day and night, and sleep on one of the new parent beds, thanks to the generosity of people like you. For this reason, Liliana and her mum, Aleksandra, would like to say a big “thank you” for all your help and generosity.