Rams players bring festive cheer to hospital patients

Derby County brought some festive cheer to Royal Derby Hospital following a visit by some of its men’s first team players, organised by Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity.

Head coach John Eustace joined his players for the afternoon during which they met patients, families and staff.

The players visited Puffin Ward, the hospital’s inpatient children’s ward, where they joined in with craft activities, handed out presents and chatted with children receiving care.

The team also delivered a large TV for the ward and made a donation towards the Christmas appeal, which is aiming to fund a new sensory unit, which will support young patients who benefit from a calming, therapeutic distraction during their hospital stay.

As part of their visit, the squad also spent time in the hospital’s Renal Unit.

There they met patients undergoing dialysis treatment and spoke with staff about the specialist support the service provides.

They also made a contribution towards a fundraising appeal for a new holiday dialysis caravan in Wales – a much-loved resource that allows patients the chance to take short respite breaks while still receiving the care they need from staff based at the Royal Derby Hospital.

Head coach John Eustace said: “Spending time in hospital during the Christmas period isn’t easy, especially for children and people undergoing regular treatment.

“Coming in to meet everyone, give out some gifts and hopefully raise a few smiles felt really important.

“The lads were all keen to be here and support the visit in any way they could.”

Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity work with teams across University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust to improve the experience of patients and staff.

Chief officer Jill Matthews said: “We were absolutely delighted to welcome Derby County back to the hospital.

“The players brought such warmth and energy to both Puffin Ward and the Dialysis Unit, and their generosity will have a lasting impact.

“From the donation towards our new sensory unit, to supporting the dialysis caravan fund, to handing out individual gifts and simply taking the time to talk with patients and staff – it all made the day feel incredibly special.

“Christmas can be a challenging time to be in hospital, so moments like this really do lift spirits.

“We’re extremely grateful to everyone at the club for their time and kindness.”

A video has been made of the Rams’ visit. View it below or by clicking here.

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