Chloe Ingrey-Smith

Christmas Fundraiser for the Royal Marsden Children’s Unit Two years ago, I set up a little Christmas fundraiser to buy some new push-along cars for the children’s unit at The Royal Marsden. This Christmas, I’d love to do the same again. Every hospital we’ve been in, Ellis has always been happiest here — the facilities and the staff make it such a special place. He was never a prisoner here; he could roam around the playroom, and we’d walk him up and down the corridors for hours in those little cars while he was hooked up to chemo or drips. Towards the end of his 15 months of treatment, we had to isolate in a room while Ellis was permanently attached to a syringe driver. I nearly lost my mind at the thought of keeping a three-year-old contained in four walls 24 hours a day. One of the lovely play specialists, Sarah, saw how upset we both were. She knew how much Ellis loved playing with the toy kitchen — so she brought in a whole kitchen set for him to play with, and it stayed with us for the duration of that stay. It made the hardest days just a little easier, and I’ll always be so grateful for that kindness. Over the last two years, Ellis has spent half of his life here. He’s one of many children who will call this place home for Christmas. I’ve spoken with Sarah, and she’s shared a little wishlist for the ward — including wiggle cars, bumper cars, PS4 controllers, and a play car garage. I would love to reach our target to make sure every item on that list is fulfilled for the children and families spending Christmas in hospital this year. I’ll keep everyone updated with photos of the new deliveries so you can all see the difference your generosity makes. Please share if you can — and from all of us as a family, thank you ❤️