A family whose daughter spent much of her short life on a ward at Morriston Hospital have thanked nurses and other staff members with a huge donation of Christmas presents. Danielle and Daniel Coffey’s daughter, Paige, was in and out of the children’s ward - Ward M, at the Swansea hospital due to several conditions.
In July of this year, however, young Paige died at the tender age of seven. Her parents, their family and friends wanted to do something to show their appreciation of the care provided to Paige, but also something that would benefit other children and their families.
The family from the Gendros area of the city decided to launch an appeal on social media, which saw them making and selling ribbons in Paige’s memory. The appeal resulted in £5,500 worth of presents being delivered to the ward. You can get more Swansea news and other story updates straight to your inbox by subscribing to our newsletters here.
According to Paige’s mum, Danielle, the donation was "more than a thank you". She added: "The team looked after Paige since she was 18 months old. The doctors told us that we would lose her at 4 but she made it past her 7th birthday. It’s a home away from home, Morriston Hospital, thanks to all the girls there. They’re like family. We are more than grateful and this is just a small thank you."
According to Danielle, the appeal saw offers of support arriving from throughout the Swansea area and further afield. She said: "My brother-in-law Jamie placed a post on Facebook and everyone got involved and helped as much as they could. I think Paige touched so many hearts. People just wanted to donate, she was amazing.”
Amongst the items delivered to the hospital were 11 TVs, iPads, travel mugs for nurses, countless toys and two microwaves. The response had been “amazing”, Danielle said.
"We asked ourselves what the children and their families, and the nurses, needed," she added. "I think we’ve covered everything. We are more than happy. The only thing we need now is a bigger family room."
Ward sister, Sandra Mack, said: "We are very sad that Paige has left us. We looked after her for a very long time. She was in and out of hospital and the whole team grew great affection for her. We also developed a strong bond with her parents and wider family. We will be forever grateful for the donations made to us. It’s very kind of the family to do so."
In response to the huge donation, Cathy Stevens, Swansea Bay Health Charity’s fundraising officer, said: "Seeing how much love the family showed towards the staff on the children’s ward was very heartwarming and emotional.
"They were so grateful for all the support, love and care they showed not only to Paige but to the whole family and they continue to have a very special bond. The family showed their gratitude through this enormous donation which will keep the children on the ward very busy."
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