Christmas came early for youngsters at the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital (RACH) as Aberdeen Football Club stars paid them a special festive visit.
The Dons first team visited the wards to bring some festive cheer to the children and young people who are spending time with NHS Grampian in the run up to Christmas, handing out gifts, signing autographs and posing for photos.
Captain Graeme Shinnie and his teammates took time out from training on Wednesday, December 11, to visit RACH as part of The Archie Foundation’s annual Advent Calendar campaign.
The Advent Calendar began on December 1, bringing special treats and exciting activities and experiences for the children, their families and hospital staff to enjoy – including a visit from Santa himself.
The charity’s festive initiative will run right up until Christmas Eve, when it culminates with supporters visiting the wards to hand out gifts.
Paula Cormack, chief executive of The Archie Foundation, said: “As always, the footballers’ visit was a real highlight and the children were absolutely thrilled to see some of their favourite Dons players on the wards. They brought a smile to the faces of patients and staff alike and we are so grateful to the team for coming to the hospital and spending time with everyone.
“The Archie Foundation Advent Calendar is a key part of our celebrations in the weeks before Christmas. Thanks to our supporters and partners, it’s a chance to deliver activities, gifts and memorable experiences for the children who find themselves in hospital during the festive season, and there’s also treats for their families and for the hard-working staff too.”
Graeme Shinnie said it was humbling experience for the players to meet patients and staff at the hospital.
“Our annual visit to the hospital really gives us all a sense of perspective, especially at this time of year. There are so many brave children, who along with their families, are facing an uncertain and challenging time so we’re delighted to play a small part in helping to raise spirits and spread a little happiness,” he said.
“This Club prides itself for being at the heart of the community and this Christmas tradition is one which means so much to all of us.
“It also gives us the opportunity to recognise the fantastic staff at the hospital who work tirelessly to make a real difference to the lives of these children and they deserve huge praise for the fantastic work they do throughout the year. We hope everyone has a healthy and happy festive period.”
A number of local businesses have sponsored activities as well as funding services as part of the Advent Calendar campaign, ensuring they can continue in 2025.
Caroline Clark, chief nurse for Combined Child Health at NHS Grampian, added: “It’s always very special when something out of the ordinary happens to brighten the day of children in hospital - whether that’s having someone special visit, receiving a new toy, or hearing Christmas carols being sung in the hospital. Little changes to the day make a significant difference to those who find themselves in hospital at this time of year.”
The Archie Foundation exists to transform experiences and outcomes in healthcare and bereavement for babies, children and families across North Scotland, including Aberdeen, Elgin, Inverness and Dundee.
The charity’s vision is that all children in the region will have equal access to world-class healthcare and bereavement support, delivered in a child-appropriate environment and manner.
Visit www.archie.org/getsupport/ for more information about the practical, financial and emotional support available from The Archie Foundation.