Football heroes kick off the festive season with special visit

Christmas came early for youngsters at the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital yesterday (December 9), as the Dons’ first team players paid them a special festive visit.

The players visited the wards to bring some festive cheer to children and young people who are being cared for by NHS Grampian in the run up to Christmas, posing for photos, signing autographs and delivering gifts from AFC.

Captain Graeme Shinnie and his teammates took time out from training to visit the hospital as part of The Archie Foundation’s annual Advent Calendar campaign.

The Advent Calendar began on December 1, bringing special treats and exciting activities and experiences for the children, their families and hospital staff to enjoy – including a visit from Santa, who will abseil down the side of the building.

The charity’s festive initiative continues until Christmas Eve, when it culminates with supporters visiting the wards to hand out gifts.

This was the second visit by the Dons recently, following a tour of the wards in September to show off the Scottish Cup.

Paula Cormack, chief executive of The Archie Foundation, said: “The footballers’ visit was a real highlight as always and the children were absolutely thrilled to see some of their favourite Dons players on the wards. We’re very grateful to the team for coming to the hospital and spending time with everyone.

“The Archie Foundation Advent Calendar is at the heart of our celebrations in the weeks before Christmas. Thanks to our supporters and partners, it’s a chance to deliver activities, gifts and memorable experiences for the children who find themselves in hospital over the festive season – and there’s also treats for their families and the hard-working staff too.”

Graeme Shinnie said it was humbling experience for the players to meet patients and staff at the hospital.

“Our annual Christmas visit to the hospital has become one of the most important fixtures in our calendar,” he said. “To see the smiles on the kids’ faces is really humbling and we never take for granted how brave all the patients are, and how amazing the staff are at the hospital.

“As footballers we think we do a special job, but we don’t – it’s when you come to places like this that you really see what is important. It gives us all perspective about what matters, especially at this time of year. We know it is challenging for many but hopefully we played a small part in helping to raise spirits and spread a little happiness.

“We hope everyone has a healthy and happy festive period.”

The Archie Foundation exists to transform experiences and outcomes in healthcare and bereavement for babies, children and families across North Scotland, including Aberdeen, Elgin, Inverness and Dundee.

The charity’s vision is that all children in the region will have equal access to world-class healthcare and bereavement support, delivered in a child-appropriate environment and manner.

Click here for more information about the practical, financial and emotional support available from The Archie Foundation.