Munster Rugby stars deliver some Christmas cheer with visit to sick children at UHL

A delegation from the Munster rugby team visited the Children’s Ark paediatric unit at University Hospital Limerick to dispense some festive cheer among the young paediatric patients as well as the nursing and medical staff.

It was Christmas come early for the children, including Gloriame Mbongo Essomdo from Ennis, who received gifts of signed rugby gear and accessories. The players also spent time chatting and posing for pictures with the young patients, their parents and the nursing and medical staff.

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Commenting on the festive season at the Children’s Ark, Dr Siobhan Neville, consultant paediatrician, said: “December can be a busy time of year at the Children’s Ark as winter-related respiratory infections increase. While we always do our best to get children well enough in time to celebrate at home with their families, there are always young patients who must spend the festive season in hospital with vaccine-preventable illnesses. 

“We encourage families to speak to their GP or pharmacist about the free nasal flu vaccine available for anyone between the ages of 2 and 17. It is not too late to get vaccinated. We also hope that parents who are welcoming new babies over the winter months will have their newborns vaccinated against RSV before leaving the maternity hospital.

“Christmas is still a magical time in the Children’s Ark – we organise a range of seasonal activities and events for children and young people admitted to hospital or attending appointments at this time of year. We’d like to thank all the artists, musicians, sports stars, and other special guests who support us at this special time, and throughout the year,” she concluded.