While most people will be celebrating Eid (expected the end of next week) at home with family and loved ones. Merciful Giving wanted those children and teenagers spending it in hospital to not miss out and still feel the importance of the occasion.
Five of its volunteers arrived at Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital with 44 boxes which included toys, books and board games for all ages - along with balloons which they presented to staff on the Children’s Ward, alongside the Trust's Chief Executive Martin Hodgson.
Merciful Giving Trustee representative, Mariyah Shaikh said, “Eid is a joyful and spiritual festival marking the end of Ramadan and is one of the most important holidays in the Muslim calendar.
“Our aim is to bring joy and comfort to children who will be spending Eid in hospital.
“It’s important for those who won’t have the usual Eid setting and environment to give them that happiness and by opening up presents, like they would at home, gives them a little taste of normality.
“We also want this to be a time for all people to celebrate Eid, regardless of their culture or beliefs, as our sole purpose is about everyone coming together and making poorly children feel a little better."
One patient who received a present was three-year-old Arya-Rose. Brought to the Children’s Ward the day before, her mum, Atlanta, said the wooden princess castle had made her day.
She added: “Since Ayra-Rose was brought into hospital she has been stuck in her bed doing nothing – she hasn’t even smiled. But when she met the volunteers from Merciful Giving and they said she could choose a present she hasn’t stopped smiling or playing! Their gift – and visit - has made a big difference to her and really helped.”
Merciful Giving was founded by five friends who share a belief that ordinary acts of care can create meaningful change. Now with over 50 volunteers together they support families who could use a helping hand, get behind local community efforts and provide practical support for people to get on their feet. The gifts for Eid, which will be distributed across all ELHT paediatric sites and community, were donated by Smyths toys, local businesses and schools.
Play Leader Jade Denton says play is so important for patients in hospital.
“Being in hospital can be a sad time for children and young people so play is vital – and encouraged.
“And the fact that we rely on donations to make play possible, what Merciful Giving has done is absolutely amazing. Not only does it enable patients to celebrate Eid, but by taking gifts to all the children and spreading some joy it really makes a difference for all of us, so thank you.”
ELHT is a diverse Trust that tries it’s hardest to be inclusive and fully appreciates how important Eid is.
If you would like to donate a gift for Eid please visit www.elhtandme.co.uk
