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Santa giving a little boy wearing a blue paper crown a present on Thames Clipper.

Santa’s Thames adventure with Evelina London patients

This Christmas, your support helped Evelina London’s play specialists create a magical surprise for 10 young patients and their families.

Santa giving presents to three excited children.

Santa Claus made a special trip to London, spreading festive cheer to patients, families, and NHS staff at Evelina London Children’s Hospital.

Thanks to the Port of London Authority and Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, patients and families had an unforgettable boat ride along the River Thames. Sailing from the London Eye to Tower Bridge, everyone got the chance to enjoy the city’s festive charm.

Children excitedly watched on board a Thames Clipper as Santa arrived in style on a boat decorated with tinsel and wreaths. Before greeting the little ones, he sailed through the city on his sea sleigh, spreading Christmas joy and delivering presents.

On board, each patient and their family received a gift from Santa, whilst the Evelina London Play team and Uber Boat by Thames Clipper crew sang merry songs and played games.

It was 11-year-old Dexter’s first time on a boat!

Among the children was Dexter, who has been a patient at Evelina London since he was 3 days old. During the past decade, he has had over 20 operations, including a kidney transplant, and attends the hospital regularly for transplant reviews.

Comparing when Dexter was on dialysis, to how he is following his transplant, his mum Donna said: “It is like night and day. We didn’t realise just how sick Dexter was while on dialysis until he got his new kidney and is now able to enjoy days out like this. He has more energy than anyone I know. It’s so nice to see his character come out and see him become more outgoing.”

The LEGO-enthusiast Dexter, met Santa and received the best possible gift: a new LEGO set!

“It was the best present I could have been given. I’ve never seen Santa on a boat before. It was really fun!”

Dexter, patient at Evelina London
Evelina London play team with festive headbands and paper crowns on a Thames Clipper Uber Boat with Santa.

Santa’s grotto on the Thames

The event was made possible thanks to Port of London Authority, who not only gave Evelina London patients an extraordinary experience but are also making a generous donation to us. This kind donation will help Evelina London go above and beyond in ensuring young patients feel safer, happier, and more at home during their recovery.

The day was also organised by our incredible Evelina London’s play specialists, whose work is made possible by your donations.

Sue Pruden, play service manager of the therapeutic play service, said: “In hospital, families don’t often have the opportunity to spend time together. Experiences like this, that the whole family can enjoy and create memories together, are especially invaluable at Christmas time.”

Santa talking to Cruz, Cruz is wearing festive glasses with Christmas presents behind him.

Donate today to help us create more unforgettable days like this.

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Could help buy VR technology – that helps to distract children from sometimes scary procedures.
Could help fund magical sensory equipment for therapeutic play sessions.
Could contribute towards pioneering research – so children get the best care.
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