Clumsy the Elf surprises kids at Mount Druitt Hospital
A coffee machine, Carebear plush toys, welcome packs of toiletries, slippers, pencils, colouring books and lots more, were some of the early Christmas presents delivered to Mount Druitt Hospital to bring cheer to our littlest patients and their parents.
The presents and Christmas decorations were kindly donated by Western Earthmoving.
Clumsy the Elf was on hand to provide entertainment for the patients by decorating gingerbread biscuits, as well as creating personalised baubles which were added to the Christmas trees.
Mount Druitt Hospital’s director of nursing Andrew Johnson gave a hand with the decorating and making colourful baubles.
“I’m new to Mount Druitt Hospital and it is fantastic to see the community spirit from local business and the reaction of the patients, families and staff,” Andrew said.
“It’s wonderful that the parents have also been considered this Christmas with the coffee machine, slippers and welcome packs for when the have to stay overnight.”
Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospital’s Better Foundation, chief executive officer, Nermeen Yacoub, also rolled up her sleeves and assisted Santa’s helpers.
“It’s wonderful to see so many smiles on everyone’s faces,” Nermeen said.
“Many families come to hospital unprepared when their child is admitted overnight. It’s comforting that we can provide the smallest necessities to make their stay as comfortable as possible.”
St Mary’s resident Nicole Collins, has visited the Children’s Ward each week since October after her two-year old daughter Lexie was diagnosed with a rare brain disorder.
“All the staff are fantastic and caring – they all remember her,” Nicole said.
“It’s lovely seeing the colourful decorations and the Christmas trees around the ward.
“The play therapy area in the Children’s Ward is really important for the kids, especially when they are in hospital for a long stretch like my daughter. Sometimes we are here for three to four days. It’s such a nice environment for the kids to recover in.”
To donate to the Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospital’s Better Foundation, contact Nermeen Yacoub at nermeen.yacoub@betterfoundation.org.au or 0433 349 944.
