Patients and staff at the ANCHOR Unit have received a special visit from the North Pole.
While Santa continues preparing for the big day, he has sent Mrs. Claus to spread some cheer to cancer and haematology patients in the ANCHOR Unit at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
With just one week until Christmas, Mrs. Claus made sure to bring back up with her, in the form of Friends of ANCHOR’s wellbeing elves, who helped deliver presents to patients and the staff taking care of them.
Each year since 2007, the charity has organised a visit from the Claus family to thank NHS staff for their hard work and commitment throughout the year, and to bring a touch of joy to patients spending Christmas in hospital away from their loved ones.
The Christmas squad were joined by Craig Wilson, known as The Kilted Chef and a long-term supporter of the charity, who handed out his famous baked treats. Together they visited patients throughout the ANCHOR Unit, which comprises haematology and oncology specialties across inpatient and day patient settings.
Margaret from Portsoy said Mrs. Claus stopping by was exactly what she needed: “It was just lovely and so thoughtful. It definitely lifted my spirits.
“Luckily, I’m getting to go home for Christmas to be with my family. I’ve got a great support network of family and friends around me.
“The support from Friends of ANCHOR while I’ve been here has been absolutely great and I couldn't wish for anything better - you just can’t fault it.”
The gifts handed out to patients were funded by a generous donation from Kings Community Church, where the congregation helped raise £3,000 for 270 gifts.
Thanks to the generous donations throughout the year ringfenced towards Friends of ANCHOR’s staff fund – created especially for donors to give thanks to staff in the ANCHOR Unit - 250 members of staff received a gift from Mrs. Claus.
Friends of ANCHOR trustee Fiona Bruce, who stepped into the boots of Mrs. Claus, said it was a privilege to spread some cheer.
Mrs. Bruce said: “This time of year is magical for so many of us, but unfortunately some people aren’t able to spend that precious time at home with their loved ones over the Christmas period, so bringing the magic to them is more than a privilege.
“The hardworking staff will continue their tireless work throughout the festive season, as they have done so admirably throughout the entire year and beyond. They deserve a treat and this is just a small token of our thanks.
“I hope Mrs. Claus’ visit has put smiles on some faces and has served as a reminder that Friends of ANCHOR will be thinking of everyone spending time in the Unit at Christmas time.”