Sunday Sun

Kids ward’s Overhaul

CHRISTMAS BONANZA IS SNOW JOKE

- By Chris Knight Reporter chris.knight@reachplc.com

THIS is the incredible winter wonderland all made possible by generous donations for children at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.

The enchanting Christmas scene has been unveiled at the hospital’s ward 23, where medics provide day-case care for children.

Santa’s workshop, reindeer stables, and an elf village have all been installed for children to enjoy while they receive treatment during the festive season.

The wonderland was made possible by a donation drive led by not-for-profit organisati­on Layla’s Legacy UK.

Layla, four, from Ryhope, Sunderland, always had a smile on her face while battling a congenital heart defect.

Layla passed away in 2016 weeks after undergoing a heart transplant, and inspiratio­nal mum Amanda Davis is determined to ensure her legacy lives on.

She said: “It was amazing to see it all finished. It just all seemed to click together.”

Layla’s Legacy UK supports and fundraises for families of children affected by congenital heart defects.

The organisati­on provides packs to celebrate birthdays, record memories, as well as practical assistance in supplying bedding and comforters.

Amanda spent the weekend at the Freeman Hospital with the help of Santa’s elves to prepare the wonderland. The area was unveiled on Monday, and Amanda has thanked everyone who contribute­d to making her dream a reality. She added: “The families could not have been anymore thankful, and the kids faces were just complete magic. “Everyone has just been so appreciati­ve. “Just because the children are in hospital does not mean they can’t enjoy and Christmas.” Amanda has revealed the festive offering is just the latest in a series of plans Layla’s Legacy UK has for ward 23. The 35-year-old hopes to transform the area throughout the year with themes for events such as Easter and Halloween.

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 ??  ?? ■ Amanda Davis, who runs Layla’s Legacy, has helped to transform part of Newcastle’s
■ Amanda Davis, who runs Layla’s Legacy, has helped to transform part of Newcastle’s
 ?? SIMON GREENER ?? Freeman Hospital into a winter paradise
SIMON GREENER Freeman Hospital into a winter paradise
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 ??  ?? ■ Ryan Waites and mum Lisa meeting Santa at the Freeman Hospital
■ Ryan Waites and mum Lisa meeting Santa at the Freeman Hospital
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