MILLWALL midfielder George Saville said it was “important to give back to the community” after Lions players spoke to families and handed out gifts on the children’s ward as part of the club’s annual visit to Lewisham Hospital.
The players, along with club staff, arrived bearing sacks full of presents, playing Santa for the afternoon. The presents included official club pennants, calendars, and notepads, and patients had the chance to take photos with their footballing heroes.
This visit was a much-needed moment of joy for the children and their families during the festive season at LGT, highlighting the club’s commitment to supporting the local community.
Saville was joined by first-team players Connal Trueman, Casper De Norre, Ryan Wintle, Femi Azeez, Tom Bradshaw and Macaulay Langstaff.
“We had the opportunity to visit the children’s ward at Lewisham Hospital to spend time with the young patients and bring some cheer to their day,” Saville said. “Our aim was to lift the spirits of both the children and their families during this challenging time.
“As we are in a fortunate position, we believe it’s important to give back to the community.
“Being in hospital is tough, and even something as simple as spending an afternoon with the children can make a meaningful difference.
“We also want to express our sincere thanks to all the staff at LGT for their hard work and dedication. We truly appreciate everything they do.”
The families expressed their appreciation to the players and the club.
Patient Alexandru’s mum, Melania, said: “I’m not a big football supporter myself, but it means a lot to have the team visit, even just to make the kids feel happy for a moment – this is such a nice idea and creates a better hospital memory.”
Another patient’s mum added: “It makes me happy to see a team doing something in the community and making such an effort, my daughter loves the gift she got from the team and I think it’s very thoughtful of them to share even with those who support other teams.”
“Today was supposed to be Amelia’s last day here after eleven days so this was completely unexpected,” her mum said. “She used to play football for five years herself so I’m sure she’s really happy to be meeting a team – they’re definitely talking to the right person. This is really cool and she’s very happy.”
Robert Cole is the Head of Nursing for Children and Young People at the hospital. He said:”We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Millwall Football Club for their visit and continued support for TeamLGT. The team was incredibly generous with their time and gifts, and they kindly posed for many photos. It was truly uplifting to see so many children, families, and staff smiling and enjoying the moment. Their visit also provided a fantastic opportunity to kick off our Children’s Christmas Toy Appeal.”
With Christmas just around the corner, anyone can also bring a smile to the faces throughout the LGT wards by donating to the Christmas Toy Appeal.
The Trust Charity is inviting local communities give a gift to our young patients at University Hospital Lewisham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital who are too ill to go home and spend Christmas with their families. Click here to make a difference this Christmas!
You can also donate new toys in the original packaging such as baby toys, educational toys, arts and crafts sets, board games and toiletries gift sets. The Trust charity asks that you do not wrap your gifts and are unable to accept cuddly toys.
Toys can be dropped off at University Hospital Lewisham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s main reception, between 10am and 3pm each day until December 22.
