Having your loved ones live half way across the world is challenging at any time – but particularly while you’re in hospital.
The family of a patient at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH), have been arranging, through the hospital’s League of Friends, for care packages to be sent to him to keep his spirits up, as well as support with Facetime, in order to keep in touch.
Ronald Bolton, who lives in Prees in Whitchurch, has been a patient at RJAH since April, after suffering from a fall and breaking his leg.
The 89-year-old’s family, who currently live in Stonington, Maine USA, have been arranging via the League of Friends for care packages to be delivered to him.
The care packages include essentials along with extra items to cheer Ronald up. The first care package included a soft toy dog that has provided much comfort throughout this period of time.
Sophie Webb, Ronald’s granddaughter, said: “The hardest part about living through the pandemic has been not being able to travel to the UK to see Grandad. It’s hard knowing he’s in hospital for such a lengthy period with no ability to have visitors at all, so it really has been a blessing to be able to provide goodies to cheer him up.
“In such a difficult and helpless time everything the League of Friends has been able to do for us has been the only thing to provide me with some relief from the stress.
“I have been able to Facetime my Grandad almost every day since he was admitted, along with my little girl who loves chatting to her Great-Grandad. His face never fails to light up when he speaks to her! I am so grateful for technology in such testing times and to all of those who have helped with our situation.”
Victoria Sugden, League of Friends Charity Director, said: “I’m so pleased we were able to help make a difference, home comforts are really important now more than ever. We’re always happy to help make patients more comfortable during their stay.”
Stacey Keegan, Acting Chief Executive at RJAH, said: “The kindness our League of Friends show towards our patients and their families is truly wonderful. They really do go the extra mile to ensure patients have a positive experience and during times like these it’s so appreciated.”
If you have a loved one currently staying at the RJAH and would like to arrange to send them a care package please do get in touch with the League of Friends on 01691 404401 or email: rjah.leagueoffriends@nhs.net.
