Traditionally, the festive season is when we get together with family and friends, share good times, make special memories and exchange gifts to show our love. Unfortunately, many people fall ill and need to spend those special days in one of our West Hertfordshire hospitals.
“Everyone wants to be home for the celebrations, but for some poorly patients this simply isn’t possible. Our staff and volunteers work hard to make December a happy time, and they will go to great lengths to show extra care, kindness and compassion.”
Tracey Carter, Chief Nurse
Despite all our efforts to reunite people with their families over Christmas, some patients are simply too poorly, live too far away or have no family to visit them. So we bring this warmth, love and joy to them by providing festive food and, importantly, small gifts for them to enjoy.
We’re determined that our patients don’t miss out on the spirit of the season simply because they’re in hospital. So we are asking local businesses and communities to make a donation to our Raise a Smile this Christmas appeal. With your donations, our charity team can buy a selection of gifts so patients know that well-wishers are thinking of them. This is particularly important for those who won’t have any visits from friends or family.
Will you show patients that they are not forgotten this Christmas, by making a donation to our Raise a Smile appeal?
- £5 could help buy hand creams, lovely smellies and advent calendars
- £10 could help buy treat selection boxes, activity books, pens and colouring items for our elderly patients
- £20 could help fund winter warmers such as blankets, scarves, gloves and more
- £50 could help buy board games, puzzles and portable radios to entertain patients while they are with us
Presents are hugely important – it’s about keeping the magic alive for patients who are spending the festive season in hospital.
If you are a business or organisation an would like to make a donation, please contact our corporate and community fundraiser, Emily Theobald, via emily.theobald3@nhs.net or 07393 232313.
We would also like to ask supporters who have, in the past, brought presents into the hospital to consider making a donation instead this year. With ongoing COVID concerns, it can be difficult for us to accept individual gifts such as toys and confectionery for patients and staff. But please be assured that we will spend your donations wisely and bring joy to patients in hospital this festive season.
