Staff spread smiles at Rainbow ward party

Hospitals are not usually associated with fun and laughter but that’s exactly what was on offer at the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital last week.

Youngsters were invited to a special party on Rainbow ward, organised by staff to help change their perception of coming to the hospital.

Local businesses including a face painter, make-up artist, nail technician and massage therapist volunteered their time to offer pampering sessions, and there was also a visit from a Disney princess and Nintendo mascot Mario.

The event was organised by play leader Terri Shaw, who said it was a huge success.

She said: “We wanted to give the children a positive experience of being at the hospital, because for many of them it’s associated with tests or feeling really unwell.

“It was aimed at some of the young people who visit us most regularly, and we also invited their siblings as they can sometimes feel left out in a family where one child has complex needs.

“It was wonderful to see so many smiles and I’m so grateful to all the businesses who volunteered their time to make the children and their families feel special.”

Among the visitors was 13-year-old Hallie Robb, who has osteopetrosis, a rare life-limiting condition that has left her blind and needing to use a wheelchair.

She said: “It was really good fun to come to the event today. Everyone on the ward is very nice and kind so I was very happy to be invited.”

The team held similar events before the coronavirus pandemic and are hoping it can become an annual celebration for their young patients.