Mary’s Story: Making Hospital Feel Like Home at Christmas

I took a fall back in September and broke my ankle in 3 places, I was admitted to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh then transferred to ward 3 in the East Lothian Community Hospital. I thought and hoped I would have been home in time for Christmas but even with the help of my physiotherapist I am just struggling to get properly back on my feet.

I have nothing but wonderful things to say about the staff normally, but they went above and beyond over the festive period. The ward was decorated beautifully, with a lovely tree in the dining room. In the run up to Christmas, the staff got me involved in taking part in crafts, I made a paper-chain tree which I was really proud of.

At Christmas, I usually receive about 100 cards and they are displayed all around my house. My son was allowed to bring in about 30 of the cards and I had them displayed in my room which was a much appreciated little comfort from home and was lovely to read all the messages in the cards from friends and family.

On Christmas morning, Santa visited the ward (I was told after Santa was one of the staff members husbands, I thought it was very kind for him to give up his time on Christmas morning) and handed gifts out to all the patients. I was gifted a cosy blanket, toiletries, and chocolates. I was really not expecting that!! All the staff were dressed up, it was a really wonderful atmosphere.

Usually on Christmas Day, my son and his family come to my house so it was a comfort they were able to visit and spend time with me on Christmas Day in hospital. I was served a delicious Christmas dinner with lots of little extra treats.

I’ll be honest I really didn’t want to be in hospital over Christmas, it is a really hard time for me as I lost my husband 2 years ago and the loss is much more in focus at this time of year but all the festive activities, decorations, gifts, food and wonderful staff helped make it a special time.