A children’s cancer charity in Leeds has started work on a new £300,000 play pavilion for young patients and their families.
Candlelighters invited children who are currently using the charity’s services and their relatives down to the building site at the Leeds General Infirmary to mark the start of the three-month project.
The facilities, located next to the children’s oncology ward, will run next to a new outdoor play area for patients being treated for cystic fibrosis.
The impressive amount of money that has been put towards the much-needed project has been raised by generous donations from individual supporters, a family of a patient being treated at the hospital and the Leeds Fans Remembrance group.
Jo Shepheard, operations manager at Candlelighters, said: “It has taken a huge amount of fundraising and work but we are delighted that the project will be starting.
“All our families can’t wait to be able to get a breath of fresh air whilst spending sometimes lengthy stays in hospital.”
She added: “We are grateful to Leeds Teaching Hospital Trust for working closely with us to be able to deliver this unique and special project for the benefit of all our families in Yorkshire.”
Professor Sally Kinsey and Doctor Geoff Shenton joined young patients Grace Milligan, seven, Alice Barfield, 12, to mark the start of the building work, which is being carried out by York-based company Simpsons Ltd.
Candlelighters, based at Leeds General Infirmary, provides help and support for children diagnosed with cancer.
The charity was formed almost 40 years ago and also gives help to families and relatives affected by the diagnosis.
To help raise another £10,000 for the charity, a ‘Firewalk’ will be held at 8pm on Wednesday, March 20.
Spectators and participants are welcome to attend the event at The Hospitium in York.
Sarah Tuckwell, regional fundraising manager at Candlelighters, said: “Whether you’re walking the coals or watching, glad it’s not you, we can guarantee an evening of fantastic fun.
“Please get in touch and help us to continue fighting children’s cancer in Yorkshire.”
To take part, entry is £30 and for spectators, tickets are £10.
For more information about the upcoming charity Firewalk, call Candlelighters on 0113 247 0372.
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