Festive fun on Rainbow ward
West Ham United women’s team players Katie O’Hanlon and Selin Cemal helped spread Christmas cheer at Newham Hospital at the end of December.
The Hammers duo attended the annual Rainbow Ward Christmas party, where they joined young patients in playing games, dancing and posing for photographs.
The visit also provided an opportunity for the players to spend time speaking with patients’ families and NHS staff, many of whom will be working throughout the festive period.
Goalkeeper O’Hanlon spoke of the importance of offering support at what can be a challenging time of year.
“It was great to be able to come along to the Christmas party and help put some smiles on faces,” she said.
“It can be hard at this time of year for children who aren’t well, but also for their families and the staff who are supporting them, so it was really nice to be able to come here and help them celebrate Christmas.
“Having been on a few hospital visits over the years, it is always rewarding to meet the staff too. They all work so hard, and it is nice to be able to say thank you and give something back.
“It is so important that we support our local community, particularly at this time of year. It gives us a lot of perspective as footballers and reminds us how lucky we are to do what we do, but also that we can help make a difference through things like this.”
The hospital visit formed part of West Ham United’s wider programme of festive community activity across east London, with men’s, women’s and Academy players once again coming together to support local hospitals and spread Christmas cheer.
Huge thanks to everyone who helped make the day so joyful for our patients, families and staff.
Read more:
- Ohanlon and Cemal pay festive visit to Newham Hospital
- West Ham United men’s team bring Christmas cheer to Newham Hospital
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