Ipswich Town footballers swapped goals for gifts after delivering presents to families being supported by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Captain Dara O’Shea, Alex Palmer, Leif Davis, Ben Johnson, Azor Matusiwa and Jacob Greaves donned their Santa hats for an eagerly awaited visit to The Treehouse.
They met children receiving care, in addition to bereaved families, and put smiles on faces during a busy afternoon of festive fun.
As well as handing out presents, the players took part in a craft activity, posed for photos, signed autographs and joined children under the snow machine.
Defender O’Shea said: “I was fortunate to come here last year, and it wasn’t what I expected. When you think of a hospice, you imagine a dark, gloomy place. This is anything but.
“It’s amazing and everyone you speak to only has positive things to say about The Treehouse.
“It’s a core part of the community and, without it, a lot of people would be lost.
“As professional footballers, we have a responsibility to be role models and to come here and make people happy just by being in their presence is very important.
“We know some of them are going through tough times, so it’s lovely for them to share their memories, worries and experiences with us.
“It’s such a small gesture on our part but something we’re extremely grateful for, having the opportunity to do something that means a lot to many people.
“We get a lot back from it, too, and it’s important for us to see the great work that goes on here.
“As well as the families, the staff and volunteers are unbelievable. They’re a credit to themselves because they’re changing lives and I know how appreciated they are.”
One of the six families to enjoy the visit was that of Cole Eastment.
Although the three-year-old’s condition has not been diagnosed, he has chronic lung disease, pulmonary hypertension and severe global development delay.
Dad Darryl said: “The Treehouse is such a special and important place to us, and it was brilliant meeting the Ipswich players.
“They were superb, had time for everyone and put lots of smiles on faces. It was great spending time with people you normally only see on a football pitch or TV.
“We were so impressed, and it was an afternoon we’ll remember for a very long time.”
The visit was part of Town’s ongoing relationship with EACH, which includes a dedicated matchday every season.
It provides an opportunity to raise funds and awareness and EACH’s special day is coming up when Preston North End provide the opposition at Portman Road on 31st January.
“Christmas can be a challenging, emotional time for many of the children and families we support, so moments like this mean everything and make such a difference,” said Anna Bruce, Senior Corporate Fundraiser at The Treehouse.
“Seeing their heroes walk through the door with presents and smiles creates memories that will last forever.
“It gives everyone a boost and is always a magical day in our calendar, so we’re incredibly grateful to everyone at Ipswich Town. It’s a relationship we’re sincerely thankful for.”
Pictures: Leo Martin (@parallaxwolf)/EACH
