Help NHS Lothian Charity create a brighter Christmas for patients in hospital

NHS Lothian Charity, has launched its Secret Santa appeal to help raise the spirits of those who are spending Christmas in hospital.

Supporters are being asked to help bring Christmas cheer to patients across the region by donating to the charity so they can buy gifts and create a festive environment for patients who are spending Christmas away from family and friends.

Fiona Taylor, a Charge Nurse at the Western General Hospital, said:

“I care for patients of all ages living with cancer, treating the symptoms of the disease and side effects of the treatment to make them as comfortable and as mentally well as possible. The Secret Santa appeal will help bring joy to patients like mine, so that we can go above and beyond for our patients and give them a Christmas with some happy memories.”

Ros, who spent a previous Christmas in hospital, said:

“A few years ago, I spent Christmas as an inpatient. I had been diagnosed with a fibroid tumour when I went into early labour with my first child, Scott. It was tough being away from my baby while he was in intensive care.

“On Christmas day, I went up to see Scott as I did every morning, and a present had been taped to his incubator. It was a handknitted cardigan small enough to fit him as a premature baby.

“It was a small thing, but it had a big impact. A small act of kindness can help someone feel remembered.”

Vanessa Healey, Planned Giving Manager at NHS Lothian Charity, adds:

“Christmas is a very special time of year and we want to ensure that no-one who finds themselves in hospital over the holidays misses out on the joy of the festive season.

“Your kind donation can help us bring joy to those who are too unwell to spend Christmas at home with their family and friends. We can’t accept donations of gifts or decorations, but by donating £20 you could help create lasting memories for NHS Lothian patients.

“We’re so grateful to everyone who gives to NHS Lothian Charity throughout the year, and we hope that this Christmas you can help us continue to make a real difference to our patients.”

As well as donating to the Secret Santa appeal, supporters are being asked to send their messages of support to patients and staff on a specially designed Christmas Bauble.

Our Secret Santa Appeal is now closed but you can still make a donation to support life changing projects across NHS Lothian by clicking the button below.