Wishes come true in Winter Wonderland

There might still be a few weeks until Santa takes to the skies, but the festive season is already in full flight for many Evelina London patients and staff members after attending a very special, inclusive event called 'Winter Wishes' at Winter Wonderland.

On the morning of Wednesday 19 November, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland closed its doors to the public to offer free entry to families who may otherwise found it difficult to attend.

Matt and Laura Davies and their four children were one of the lucky families to receive tickets. Hugo and Jasper, 7 month year old twins, were both treated in the neonatal unit at Evelina London earlier this year. Matt and Laura were thrilled to be able to take them to their first ever Winter Wonderland.

Matt said: "The care we received at Evelina London was nothing short of amazing. The staff at the neonatal unit and across the hospital were so supportive during a really tough first few months of the twins’ lives.

“We were so grateful to be given tickets to Winter Wonderland and an opportunity to give the children a really magical experience. The twins met Father Christmas for the first time, and we were all absolutely mesmerised by the circus acts.

“It really was a winter wonderland never to be forgotten!”

Winter Wishes has been running for 3 years and offers a more accessible experience with additional support for any guests that need it. The reduced capacity event offers all of the fun without the crowds. Other adjustments include reduced lighting and sound levels and an increased number of accessible facilities.

Guests also included Trish Gray, programme manager at Evelina London, and her four children. She said:

“We all had a fantastic time at Winter Wonderland. It was an incredibly cold November day, and even snowed for a bit, but this only added to the magic and we all had so much fun. It was incredible to have the opportunity to go to this event when it’s so quiet. It was much easier to keep an eye on everyone! We feel very lucky to have been able to enjoy this event together as a family, and we are very grateful.” 

The Winter Wishes tickets were kindly donated to Evelina London Children's Charity by IMG. This winter, the charity is fundraising to help open the doors of Evelina London’s new specialist children’s cancer centre. Donate today and give hope to families when they need it most.