The 30 children admitted to the paediatric ward at the Moto’otua National Hospital were treated to a surprise Christmas visit by musicians from SolFa Music and staff of SPREP.

Live music filled the ward as children’s faces lit up brighter than the fairy lights when they received gifts which were donated by SPREP staff who collected the gifts over the last few weeks.

“Christmas is the most important event on any child’s calendar and it’s unfortunate that some will not get to celebrate it at home due to their medical condition,” said Patricia Mallam, SPREP staff.

“In the spirit of giving, my colleagues at SPREP came together to add a bit of cheer to ensure that these beautiful children won’t miss out, and it was really heartwarming to see their reactions to the gifts they received.”

The gift-giving is an activity that SPREP organises annually, and is purely voluntary where all staff make contributions over the weeks leading up to Christmas.

This year SPREP joined SOLFA, who provided music and sang Christmas carols for the duration of the visit to the ward.

The nurses and doctors at the ward were excited as well. The singing made the difference for many of the children who have been admitted for some time.

According to the medical staff, such events bring joy to the children as they are unable to partake in family events.

The staff and children will have more groups visiting them before Christmas.