Isabella gives the greatest gift
Each year, like many children Isabella Lorusso would celebrate her birthday with a party with all her friends and family around her – but this year she chose to do something different.
When Isabella turned nine years old, she decided that instead of having a party, she wanted to donate all her birthday presents to the children staying in our paediatric wards at St George’s.
On 31 May, Isabella visited St George’s play room with her younger brother Alessandro and mum Edi – alongside a large bag of gifts, ranging from Disney DVDs and books to board games and arts and crafts activities.
Mum Edi, who also works at St George’s as a Thromboprophylaxis Clinical Nurse Specialist, said: “This sums Isabella up, she’s always wanting to help other people. It’s been very special to her to have given these gifts to children who spend time in hospital.”
Although Isabella’s birthday was on 22 April, she had to wait until half term to bring the toys in.
Edi said: “Every day she kept asking if we could bring the toys in. We were busy with school and extra-curricular activities, but half term was luckily just around the corner.”
Isabella, who was born at St George’s, said: “I was really looking forward to bringing the toys in to the hospital. I hope that the children enjoy them and they put a smile on their faces.”
Justine Makin, Lead Health Play Specialist, said: “It’s such a lovely generous and kind gesture from Isabella. I know that the children and young people will really enjoy them. Being in hospital is difficult at any time and these gifts will really help to make a difference and put a smile on our patients’ faces!’’
Thank you to Isabella for the very generous donation to the play room.
Isabella and Alessandro are pictured in the centre of the featured image.
Notes to editors
For more information, please contact Pippa Harper, Media Manager, via 020 8725 0724 or philippa.harper@stgeorges.nhs.uk
