Christmas is a time for family, celebration, and togetherness. But for many patients in our hospitals it’s time spent away from home. For our incredible staff, it means giving up time with their own loved ones to care for those who need them most.

This year, through our Christmas through Their Eyes campaign, we are sharing stories of patients like Jan and little Jonah, who spent their Christmas in the care of Epsom and St Helier Hospitals, and the dedicated staff who were by their side.

Jan’s story is one of strength and resilience. She was admitted just before Christmas 2020, expecting to go home in a few hours, but instead spent weeks fighting for her life in intensive care. Recalling when she was admitted to the ward, Jan explained:

“The door was open and the Christmas tree was outside and I kept thinking ‘It’s going to be Christmas soon, it’s going to be Christmas soon.’

‘I thought I’ll be out of here by then even though they had admitted me to the ward, but I was then taken to intensive care because my oxygen levels were really low and that was the last thing that I saw from that ward, the Christmas tree.’

She remembers being told that Christmas had passed while she was on a ventilator, yet she was just grateful to be alive, thanks to the unwavering care she received.

Amy’s son, Jonah, was only five weeks old when he was rushed to hospital with a dangerous infection just days before Christmas. Amy spent Christmas in Epsom Hospital, overwhelmed and worried, but was met with kindness from the staff that not only cared for Jonah but also made sure Amy and her family felt the warmth of Christmas.

“I woke up on Christmas morning and found gifts for Jonah and his older sister. It was such a lovely gesture that bought a little bit of Christmas joy during a difficult time.”

We are telling the stories of the reality of Christmas in our hospitals – the tears, the fears, but also the moments of hope and gratitude. It’s about the people behind the scenes: the staff like Pooja, who worked double shifts to keep caring for patients, and the staff who, even on Christmas Day, brought smiles to the faces of families like Amy’s.

This Christmas, you can help us continue to support patients and staff. Whether it’s by donating, getting involved in fundraising, or writing a message for our Christmas paper chains project, every contribution makes a difference.

Your support will ensure that we can provide the little extras – from Christmas meals for staff, to gifts for children that bring comfort and joy, to decorations that brighten up the wards.

Help us bring the magic of Christmas to those who need it most.