Doncaster rugby and football players brought smiles and seasonal cheer to young patients at Doncaster Royal Infirmary on 15 December, with a special visit to the Children’s Ward ahead of Christmas.
Players joined from Doncaster Rovers FC (DRFC), Doncaster Rovers Belles LFC, and Doncaster Rugby League, including DRFC Captain, Owen Bailey, defender Jamie Sterry, and Belles’s defenders, Katie Yates and Ruby Pitter. Also present was Club Doncaster Foundation Representative, Jack Payne.
The members, taking time out of their busy festive schedule, delivered a generous selection of gifts that had been thoughtfully wrapped and tailored to different age groups, ensuring children of all ages could enjoy a present of their own.
The visit was made even more memorable with the arrival of the club’s much-loved mascots, including Donny Dog, who helped lift spirits throughout the ward and posed for photos with patients, families and colleagues.
Doncaster Rovers captain Owen Bailey said: “We always look forward to the visit to the Children’s Ward at Christmas. There’s never a good time to be in hospital but we know it’s even tougher for kids and their parents at Christmas so it’s great to be able to drop in and hopefully lift spirits even just a small amount while we’re there. We thank all those that donated gift as part of our Pass The Parcel present drive.”
Selina Usher, Ward Manager on the Children’s Ward, said: “Visits like this make such a difference for our patients and their families. The players were very well received by patients, parents and staff alike – there was lots of excitement when they arrived, especially with Donny Dog in tow.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Doncaster Rovers for taking the time to visit and for bringing such thoughtfully chosen gifts that helped make the day feel a little brighter for everyone.”
The players spent time chatting with the children, helping them with their homework, talking to parents and helping to create a joyful atmosphere during what can be a challenging time for families spending the festive period in hospital.
Selina continued: “Visits like these play an important role in boosting morale for patients, families and colleagues alike, helping to create positive moments and lasting memories during a hospital stay.”
Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) Trust would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the players who attended, as well as Club Doncaster Foundation for co-ordinating the visit and bringing gifts as part of their festive campaign, Pass the Parcel.
To find out more about the Trust’s charitable activities and news, visit the Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity website: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/