It was a Christmas present to remember for a number of young patients as they got to meet their rugby heroes during our special hospital visits at the start of this week.
The stars from Cardiff Blues were guests at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales in the city centre, the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant and Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tyhfil on Tuesday afternoon.
Children at the three hospitals were given a festive surprise as the entire playing squad toured wards to meet fans, sign autographs, chat with excited youngsters and their families... and even sing some carols!
Gafyn Cooper, Rugby Operations Manager at Cardiff Blues, said: “Our annual hospital visits are one of the key community events that our players really look forward to as they get a chance to meet young fans and spread some Christmas cheer.
“It’s a difficult time of year for young patients and their families to be away from home and so the players were keen to try and boost the spirits and wish them a Merry Christmas.”
The players spent over an hour at each hospital meeting patients, signing autographs and posing for pictures.
Alison Oliver, Clinical Lead for Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales said: “We’d like to say a big “thank you” to Cardiff Blues for coming to visit patients on the wards at the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales.
“Our patients and their families really enjoyed the visit from the team. It gave them a chance to chat with the players, taking their minds off being in hospital and giving them the chance to forget about their illness for a short while.”
Tina Davies, Ward Manager at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital, said: “Children want to be at home with their families, not in hospital. This is especially true in the run up to Christmas. Having the Blues visit put a smile of the children’s faces which we was lovely to see.”
Jill Davies, Ward Manager at Prince Charles Hospital said: “Having the Cardiff Blues take time out of their very busy schedule to visit the Children’s Ward gave the children, parents and staff a lovely early Christmas present.”