West Ham players make surprise visit to patients on the Ward

Patients and families at Saint Francis Hospice received a very special Christmas surprise when West Ham United football players came to visit.

West Ham goalkeeper Darren Randolph, winger Jarrod Bowen, who also plays for England, and midfielder Freddie Potts, spent time chatting and joking with patients and their families at the hospice in Havering atte Bower on Thursday 15^th December.

They also handed out gifts and even gave delighted nurses and staff West Ham scarves.

A special visit for the players

Jarrod Bowen was full of praise for the staff and volunteers, whilst also suggesting that it was special to spread some joy around the hospice.

“The staff here are a real inspiration,” he started. “They work extremely hard and they care immensely for everyone at this hospice. It was clear to see how special the staff are as soon as I walked in. Everyone was talking about how nice the nurses are and how much support they give everyone.

“It was really nice for us to come down here today and to put a smile on so many people’s faces. Christmas is a time of joy and spirit and it was brilliant to spread some joy today.  I just want to say thank you to everyone at the Hospice, it was really special and inspiring for us players.”

Goalkeeper Darren Randolph said that it is vital for players to give back to the community and to raise awareness around the hospice’s fantastic work.

“It’s very important for us to come here and to raise awareness. It’s massive for us to get out and to help the community in whatever way that we can, especially at this time of year. It was great for us to bring some joy and some happiness to people who aren’t quite as fortunate as we are. This community backs the Club all of the time so it is important for us to give back to the community as much as possible.

“We met a number of fans and there were even a few people wearing the home shirt so it was nice for us to come and surprise them. The people we met have obviously been unable to come to matches and they might not have ever met some of the players before. To be able to have a face to face visit with them was really special and hopefully it has brightened up everyone’s day.”

Thank you from the Hospice

“Thank you so much to the West Ham United Foundation for arranging the visit,” said Lisa Denison, Local Engagement Manager with the hospice’s fundraising team.

“The players and the staff from the foundation were incredible and to say they lifted people’s spirits is an understatement!

“They spent so much time with the patients and families and were genuinely interested in everyone they met and showed so much compassion and kindness.

“They had such a positive impact on people who are going through such a difficult time in their lives.

“One of our patients were so overwhelmed with happiness he cried and patients have told us that this is an experience that they will never forget.

“Thanks again for coming along to make Christmas extra special for everyone at the hospice.”