Players from the Leeds Rhinos men’s, women’s, and Netball teams continued their Christmas tradition last week with a visit to Leeds Children’s Hospital, delivering gifts and visiting ward areas to meet patients and families.
With support from Amazon as well the Leeds Rhino’s annual Christmas Crackers appeal, donated gifts included toys, portable DVD players, baby supplies, and toiletries. Leeds Rhinos Foundation work with Leeds Children’s Hospital Play Team in the build-up to Christmas to make sure their Christmas delivery aligns with what patients and families need most.
As usual the Rhinos were a huge hit with patients spreading smiles and Christmas cheer across the hospital.
Jamie Jones-Buchanan (Leeds Rhinos CEO) joined players and support staff on the wards:
‘It’s really important getting out into the communities of Leeds. There’s a long-standing relationship now with Leeds Children’s Hospital. They’ve got wonderful staff who do outstanding work and they’re often fans of Leeds Rhinos…
…but ultimately, it’s about the young people, it’s about the children and to be able to get around the wards. Giving out some gifts and putting smiles on young faces at a difficult time of year is the main thing. It’s always an honour and a pleasure to come down and visit Leeds Children’s Hospital.’
Fionnuala O’Connor (Hospital Play Specialist) said:
‘The visit from Leeds Rhinos every single year at Christmas is absolutely amazing. The children miss out on a lot of opportunities when they’re in hospital. Having the players visit cheers up all the children and gives them something different to think about during the day and the donations are fantastic.
‘They cater for all the different needs and ages. We get things for babies all the way up to things for teenagers. We’re really grateful to everyone at Leeds Rhinos as well as all their fans and supporters whose kindness make events like this possible’
One patient was particularly keen to meet his favourite player, Jake Connor. Jake was due to visit another ward but after a last minute team huddle groups were changed and Jake made a surprise appearance!
Thank you to everyone at Leeds Rhinos and Leeds Rhinos Foundation for another fabulous Christmas visit!