The team, along with patients from the ward and a variety of stalls and performers, came and made the carnival a fun, colourful and lively event.
The day began with Freddie the Magician, who wowed patients on the ward with his magical abilities. Freddie visits the Trust as part of Pod Children’s Charity, who organise entertainment for children in hospital.
Patients were also paid a special visit by the mysterious Mandalorian and the villainous Kylo Ren.
Ashleigh Elam, Sister on the Children’s Ward at DRI said: “We loved hosting this annual event for everyone to enjoy. It really helps lift the spirits of our young patients and their families and is all round good fun for everyone involved.”
The event was particularly special for one family whose son has been on the ward since he was born, ten months ago.
The summer carnival provided the first opportunity for the family of six to capture precious memories together without a clinical backdrop.
Ashleigh said: “I am really pleased we managed to provide some ‘normal’ memories for the family.”
There were several stalls hosted throughout the day in the badminton hall, a stone’s throw from the ward.
This included the Arts and Book Bike, Forest School, Literacy Trust, wellbeing stalls and Mother Hookers, a crochet social group.
There were plenty of interactive elements to enjoy too, from Mr Dan’s circus workshop and soft play from Bounce Happy Doncaster to games in every corner such as hula hooping and ‘tin can alley’.
Jess Laycock, Registered Nursing Associate on the Children’s Ward, held a stall to raise awareness of Kooth and Qwell, websites which provide mental health support services.
Michelle Clark, Senior Sister on the Neonatal Unit, attended in her role as a Professional Nurse Advocate (PNA), raising awareness of the support available to nurses.
Play Leader, Shelly, painted works of art onto youngster’s faces and in the afternoon the lovely and excitable Tilly, a local therapy dog, put smiles on several faces as she made her rounds.
Staff and patients enjoyed a sweet treat from the Pink Flamingo dessert bar and to top the day off, enjoyed a marvellous display of skill from 11-year-old Leo, who performed with a ‘Bō staff’ and is one belt away from his 1st Dan black belt.
Ashleigh continued: “I want to thank everyone who got involved, especially the performers and stall-holders who made the carnival bright, colourful and welcoming.”
