Patients spending Christmas in hospital at North Walsham were given the tonic of extra gifts to unwrap – with a little help from their Friends.
Parcels of goodies were delivered to wards at North Walsham War Memorial Hospital on the weekend before the big day.
Bearing the gifts were members of the hospital’s League of Friends which does the annual present-drop using funds generated by public donations.
The packages were presented to 27 patients as the hospital was fully-occupied over the festive period.
Long-serving nurse Kerry Howarth said: “It means a great deal to the patients, especially those whose families live far away and cannot visit. They are pleased to know someone is thinking of them, and its puts a smile on their face. Everyone is very grateful for what the Friends do.”
Life member of the Friends Janet Alden from Honing has seen the gift delivery from sides of the bed – as a visiting gift-giver, and as a patient back in 2003. She added: “If you are feeling low it is a real boost when the unexpected gifts are handed out. And when you are delivering them you see patients perk up and really appreciate it.”
Friends chairman Keith Jarvis said: “We are delighted to use the public’s donations to put a smile on the faces of patients at this time of year with parcels of gifts. We also enjoy chatting to them on our rounds. They have some great stories to tell, and some – including one who was a former member of staff – have a real affinity with the hospital which we are proud to support.”
The Friends, who also organised a visit by carol singers over the festive period, presented hampers to the staff as well. The support group of volunteers provides extras all year round however, and are currently drawing up an action list of projects for 2018, including a new website to keep the community in touch with their work.
If you would like to help the Friends with donations or fund-raising please contact Mr Jarvis on 07788 889853.
