Santa Brings Festive Magic to Ayrshire Children Spending Christmas in Hospital

Santa Claus made an early stop in Ayrshire this Christmas with special visits to children and families spending the festive season in hospital.

Santa with patient Kyle

He visited the Children’s Ward at University Hospital Crosshouse, meeting young patients and their families, before continuing on to the Ayrshire Maternity Unit, including the Neonatal and Maternity Wards.

Santa also visited Rainbow House at Ayrshire Central Hospital in Irvine. Extra precautions were taken during the visits to help protect patients and staff during the winter period.

NHS Ayrshire & Arran Hospital Play Specialist Michelle Dodds said, “It can be unsettling for children to be away from home for treatment and especially hard at this time of year. We were delighted that Santa was able to bring a bit of festive magic when he popped in during his busiest time to come and see local children staying in hospital this Christmas.

“It was heart-warming for everyone to see how the young people reacted to meeting Santa. Seeing their happy faces really brought joy to their families and of course all the hard working and caring staff in the Paediatrics and Maternity departments here in Ayrshire.”

Kirsten Watson, CEO of Crosshouse Children’s Fund, said, “Christmas can be a particularly difficult time for children to be in hospital. These visits are so special as they create unforgettable memories for patients and families who cannot celebrate Christmas at home. We’re so grateful to the wonderful NHS Ayrshire & Arran staff, Santa, and our donors for their support this Christmas.”

Anyone wishing to donate to Crosshouse Children’s Fund or learn more about its work can do so via its website.