A surprise visit from Premier League players helps Croydon’s youngest patients to ‘kick off’ the festive season
Children being treated by Croydon Health Services NHS Trust this Christmas received a special Christmas surprise yesterday (Thursday 14 December) when they were visited by a group of footballers from Crystal Palace Football Club.
The group, which included first team players, women's team players, and Under 23’s, brought some Christmas cheer to the Trust’s ‘Rainbow Children’s Unit’, handing out gifts, posing for pictures, and chatting with the hospital’s young patients. 
Matthew Kershaw, Chief Executive of Croydon Health Services NHS Trust and the borough’s Place-Based Leader for Health, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to Crystal Palace Football Club for their generosity and for taking the time to visit the children on our wards during this special time of year.
“These gestures bring a little extra joy to the young patients needing hospital care this Christmas and we are so thankful for their kindness and support.”
The players, including Joel Ward, Marc Guehi (men’s first team) Hayley Nolan and Demi Lambourne (women’s team) were all smiles as they were handing out presents to the children, posing for selfies, singing Christmas carols and even playing some games. Hospital staff were also delighted with the visit, noting the positive impact it had on the children and their families.
David, who had just celebrated his 15th birthday on the ward, said:
“Meeting the players made me so happy, and gave me the confidence I need to play well in my own basketball games. Their encouraging words gave me a second light of hope.”
May Chu, Senior Play Specialist within the Rainbow Children’s Unit added:
“It was wonderful to see the children’s faces light up when they met the players. Their visit really lifted their spirits and made their Christmas even more special.
“Many of our patients are living in the borough and so I’m sure a visit from their local team will be one to remember!”