A FORMER BBC television presenter has launched a £250,000 appeal to fund a playroom for sick children at Lister Hospital.
Esther Rantzen visited the hospital in Stevenage last week to support the East and North Herts Hospitals Charity Magic of Play appeal, and has agreed to become the celebrity patron for the charity.
The founder of ChildLine – best known for presenting TV programme That’s Life! – spoke passionately to an audience of around 70 about the appeal, which if successful will see a playroom built with dedicated areas for children with cancer, other serious conditions and those who have been victims of sexual abuse.
Speaking to the Comet, the 72-year-old said: “The charity got in touch with me and explained how this appeal would make a difference and I am very impressed with their professionalism and creativity. This will make a huge difference and it is just the sort of thing which people like to support.
“I think it is right that a charity should help to top up the money that has already been provided to the NHS and this will help to go towards making life so much better for kids when they are ill or just need time to themselves. It is a difficult time for them and we should do all we can to make it easier.”
Tina Houlihan, head of the East and North Herts Hospitals Charity, added: “We are absolutely delighted to have Esther’s support. Esther will boost public awareness of the Magic of Play appeal and help us to raise £250,000 needed to build and equip a new playroom.
“Esther is a national treasure, and with her passion in campaigning for children’s rights and welfare, she is the perfect ambassador for this project and we are delighted that she has chosen our local charity to support. This project will give local kids the most excellent play facilities possible during a very distressing time.”
For more information about the appeal call the East and North Herts Hospitals Charity on 01438 285541, email fundraising.enh-tr@nhs.net or you can also go online and visit www.magicofplay.org
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