In 2026, I’ve made the decision to do something that has been on my heart for a long time. I’m going to be buying toys to donate to the children’s wards at Hull Royal Infirmary, with the hope of bringing comfort, distraction, and moments of happiness to children who are going through experiences no child should ever have to face.

I’m 23 years old and chronically ill. Since I was 16, I’ve been in and out of hospital for many different reasons. Hospitals have become a huge part of my life places I know all too well. I know the long waiting times, the constant tests, the uncertainty, the fear, the exhaustion, and the emotional toll that comes with being unwell for so long. Even as an adult, hospital stays can be incredibly difficult, lonely, and overwhelming.

Because of that, I truly cannot imagine how much harder it must be for children.

Children don’t always understand what’s happening to them. They don’t understand why they feel sick, why they’re in pain, or why they have to stay somewhere that feels unfamiliar and frightening. They don’t understand why they can’t just go home, sleep in their own bed, or play with their favourite toys. Hospital wards can be noisy, bright, and intimidating especially when you’re young, scared, and far away from everything that makes you feel safe.

For a child, even a short hospital stay can feel endless.

I know from my own experience how much the small things can matter. A distraction. Something comforting. Something that makes you smile, even if only for a moment. Those small moments of joy can make a difficult day feel a little more manageable, and sometimes they’re the only bright spot in an otherwise scary time. That’s why toys are so important they’re not “just toys.” They’re comfort, normality, and a reminder that someone cares.

Hull Royal Infirmary has been a constant presence in my life for many years. I’ve been cared for there during some of my hardest moments, and while my experiences haven’t always been easy, I’ve seen first hand the compassion and dedication of the staff who work tirelessly to care for patients of all ages. This is my way of giving something back not only to the hospital, but to the children who spend days, weeks, or even months within its walls.

I know what it’s like to feel like your life is on pause while the world keeps moving. I know how isolating it can feel. And while I can’t take away their pain or their fear, I can try to bring them something that offers comfort, distraction, and a sense of joy during an incredibly difficult time.

I want to be clear that I will be using my own money to fund this regardless of whether donations are made. This is something I am committed to doing, because it matters to me. However, a few friends suggested setting up a GoFundMe in case anyone would like to support the cause or be part of making this bigger and reaching more children.

Every single donation no matter how small will go directly towards purchasing toys suitable for children of different ages, ensuring they are appropriate, safe, and able to bring comfort to as many children as possible. Even £1 is genuinely appreciated. It may not seem like much, but when combined with others, it can help put a smile on a child’s face during one of the hardest times of their life.

If you’re unable to donate, please don’t feel any pressure to do so. Sharing this fundraiser, sending kind words, or simply supporting the idea means more than you know. Every form of support helps, whether financial or emotional.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for supporting something that means so much to me. Thank you for helping me turn my own difficult experiences into something positive, and for helping bring a little light, comfort, and happiness to children who need it most.