Lion-hearted Millwall players bring seasonal cheer to youngsters in hospital
Millwall Football Club players visited University Hospital Lewisham on Tuesday to deliver Christmas cheer and gifts to young patients.
The players, along with club staff, arrived bearing sacks full of gifts, playing Santa for the afternoon.
The presents included official club pennants, calendars and notepads, and patients had the chance to take photos with their footballing heroes.
This visit was a much-needed moment of joy for our children and families during the festive season at Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust (LGT).
Melania, mum to patient Alexandru, said: “I’m not a big football supporter myself, but it means a lot to have the team visit, even just to make the kids feel happy for a moment – this is such a nice idea and creates a better hospital memory.”
Another mum said: “It makes me happy to see a team doing something in the community and making such an effort. My daughter loves the gift she got from the team and I think it’s very thoughtful of them to share even with those who support other teams.”
Millwall midfielder George Saville said: “We had the opportunity to visit the children’s ward at Lewisham Hospital to spend time with the young patients and bring some cheer to their day. Our aim was to lift the spirits of both the children and their families during this challenging time.
“As we are in a fortunate position, we believe it’s important to give back to the community. Being in hospital is tough, and even something as simple as spending an afternoon with the children can make a meaningful difference. We also want to express our sincere thanks to all the staff at LGT for their hard work and dedication. We truly appreciate everything they do.”
Robert Cole, head of nursing for children and young people, added: “We’d like to express our heartfelt thanks to Millwall Football Club for their visit.
“The team was incredibly generous with their time and gifts, and they kindly posed for many photos. It was truly uplifting to see so many children, families, and staff smiling and enjoying the moment. Their visit also provided a fantastic opportunity to kick off our Children’s Christmas Toy Appeal.”
The Trust Charity is inviting local communities give a gift to young patients at University Hospital Lewisham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital who are too ill to go home and spend Christmas with their families.
You can also donate new toys in the original packaging such as baby toys, educational toys, arts and crafts sets, board games and toiletries gift sets. The Trust charity asks that you do not wrap your gifts and are unable to accept cuddly toys.
Toys can be dropped off at University Hospital Lewisham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s main reception, between 10am and 3pm each day until December 22.
Click here to make a Christmas donation
Pictured top: Millwall players doing the rounds at Lewisham hospital (Picture: LGT)