Tiger Ward summer celebration
Tiger Ward, our children’s cancer unit at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, held its annual summer party on Friday 15 August at the Meridian Sports Club. Families of current and former patients came together to enjoy a fun-filled day with bouncy castles, face painting, tattoos, ice creams, and lunch in the sunshine.
A highlight of the day was 11-year-old Marcel Stankiewicz ringing the End of Treatment Bell after three years of treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, it was a moment of hope and celebration for all who attended.
Alex, one of Tiger Ward's patients currently receiving treatment, had been especially excited about the party. His mum Anna, said: “What a brilliant celebration. Alex had so much fun and loved his tattoos. Events like this bring a sense of normality to the children, letting them forget their worries, spend time outdoors and simply enjoy being kids."
Samantha MacDonald, Interim Deputy Paediatric Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist, said: “Our Tiger Ward patients miss out on many parties due to treatment, so being able to hold the Tiger Summer Party for our families is a great privilege. Seeing the children playing and enjoying themselves makes it all worthwhile. Watching Marcel ring the End of Treatment Bell was truly inspiring for families who are just beginning their journey.
"It was fantastic that Marcel was able to ring the bell this year, showing families at the start of treatment that there are brighter days ahead. We all had a wonderful time and are already looking forward to planning next year’s party.”
The Tiger Ward team thanked the Chartwell Cancer Trust for funding the day and the Meridian Sports Club for donating the venue.