Idris Elba and Rita Ora spread festive cheer
Posted on Friday 21st December 2018
Idris Elba and Ryan on Savannah ward
Hollywood actor, Idris Elba, and pop star, Rita Ora, have delivered Christmas presents to patients at Evelina London.
The superstar duo donned Father Christmas and Mother Claus outfits to visit patients and their families in Penguin outpatients clinic, Savannah ward and Snow Fox ward.
During the visit, the pair spoke to patients, families and staff about spending time at Evelina London over the festive period.
Idris Elba said: “Giving back and helping others is really important to me. I know this time of year can be really difficult for patients and their families so I wanted to do something that would help to lift their spirits. I’m a father of two, which really brings home the stories of the children and families here at Evelina London.”
Idris spoke to Evelina London patient Ryan Carter who was admitted to the hospital for a heart operation. Ryan, 10, said: “I’m a huge fan of Idris. I had no idea he was coming. This was the best surprise in the world.”
Marian Ridley, Evelina London director, said: “We are extremely grateful to Idris Elba and Rita Ora for spending time with our patients and for their very generous gifts. Our patients, families and staff were very delighted to see them.
“Spending time in hospital during the Christmas period can be extremely tough so their visit has helped to bring real joy during what can be an extremely difficult time in their lives.
“Our wonderful staff are committed to providing the best possible care all year and we are so thankful for their dedication.”
Next year, Evelina London turns 150. We were founded in 1869 as Evelina Hospital for Sick Children by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, whose wife, Evelina, died along with their baby in childbirth.
We care for children and young people from before birth, throughout childhood and into adult life. Our hospital provides a range of services to children across south London and south east England. We also provide community services to children and their families in Lambeth and Southwark.
This is the second year Idris Elba has delivered Christmas presents to children spending time in hospital. Last year he visited a children’s hospital in East London with the rapper Stormzy.