Derby County and Wayne Rooney deliver presents to children at Royal Derby Hospital
Christmas came early for children and their families at the Royal Derby Hospital as Wayne Rooney and members of the Derby County squad paid a surprise Christmas visit this week.
Rooney, as well as club captain Curtis Davies, Martin Waghorn and Graeme Shinnie were just some of the Rams favourites who came to spread the Christmas cheer on the hospital’s Puffin, Sunflower and Dolphin wards, delivering presents, posing for pictures with the children, parents and staff, and even helped to make some Christmas cards.
The club also sponsored and donated two gaming carts from TheRockinR Gaming Charity, which will allow our young patients to play video games on our wards during their time in hospital.
Rams midfielder, Graeme Shinnie, said: “It’s good to try to make the children and their families happy when they could be spending their Christmas in hospital. If us coming here and giving out some gifts puts a smile on their faces, then that’s an amazing feeling.”
Staff expressed their thanks to the players for their visit, adding that while Christmas was a difficult time of year for many patients, the visit significantly lifted spirits across the ward.
Senior Sister on Puffin Ward, Kanta Bhaska, said: “The excitement on the day is just amazing. More than anything, it’s a chance for the children and their families to meet their heroes and be inspired. Bringing a little joy goes a long way in improving their hospital experience.
“Everyone at UHDB would like to thank Derby County once again for giving up their time to visit. It goes a long way in making this time of year a bit brighter for patients and staff.”