*Press release published by kind permission from Crosshouse Children’s Fund:
Kilmarnock, 21/12/2023 – Players and staff from Kilmarnock FC recently made a heartwarming visit to the children’s wards at University Hospital Crosshouse alongside charity partner, Crosshouse Children’s Fund.
First team players, including captain Kyle Vassell plus the likes of Danny Armstrong and Stuart Findlay, arrived to spread cheer among Ayrshire’s babies, children and young people who will have to spend this Christmas in hospital.
The visit was not only an opportunity for the young patients to meet their football heroes, but also a chance for the players and staff to connect with the Ayrshire community, our NHS Ayrshire and Arran heroes, and some of the club’s biggest young fans currently unable to make it to matches.
Kilmarnock FC handed out merchandise, signed autographs, and posed for pictures, creating lasting memories for the children and their families.
Kyle Vassell, captain of Kilmarnock Football Club, commented: “The club’s partnership with Crosshouse Children’s Fund is vital as we’re passionate about doing as much as we can within the community.
“When people are in hospital it’s not normally for great reasons, so if we can cheer them up and share a bit of Christmas spirit with them then it’s great, we enjoy it too.”
Crosshouse Children’s Fund and Kilmarnock FC have worked together for several years to ensure young people in Ayrshire receive the best possible care. The club has previously supported with virtual visits during Covid-19 and with fundraising events at The BBSP Stadium, Rugby Park and the adjacent Park Hotel.
Kirsten Watson, CEO of Crosshouse Children’s Fund, said: “We were delighted to have Kilmarnock FC at the hospital once again. The players and staff helped create moments of happiness for families in hospital at this time of year.
“While some children will not celebrate Christmas at home this year, the squad made sure they created a different kind of memory in hospital.”
Michelle Dodds, NHS Ayrshire & Arran Hospital Play Specialist, added: “This annual visit is one of the highlights of the calendar and once again it had a very positive impact for our young inpatients. The support from Kilmarnock FC is greatly appreciated and it helps us to create a special festive atmosphere in the ward at this time of year.
“We know how much joy it brings the children, their families and the footballers themselves. The visit made a big difference to local children who are unfortunately spending time in hospital over Christmas.”
ENDS
About Crosshouse Children’s Fund
From the tiniest babies in the neonatal unit at Ayrshire Maternity, to the paediatric wards at Crosshouse and throughout the community, Crosshouse Children’s Fund is the charity for Ayrshire’s children in hospital.
The charity raises vital funds to ensure children in hospital in Ayrshire receive the very best care. Funds raised help bring the latest medical equipment to Ayrshire, help families navigate the pressures of their child’s journey, and help children cope in hospital.
With the help of communities across Ayrshire and Arran, Crosshouse Children’s Fund has already invested more than £350,000 in life-changing projects; but there is so much more to do. Every year, 25,000 babies, children and young people require hospital treatment in Ayrshire.
With the help of donors, fundraisers and volunteers, Crosshouse Children’s Fund strives to make a life-changing impact for each and every one of them.
For media enquiries please contact:
Steven Mair, Marketing and Communications Officer | 07436153046 |steven.mair@gchc.scot
www.crosshousechildrensfund.org
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crosshousecf