St Mirren stars spread joy during visit to Paisley hospice

The Buddies lived up their name last weekend when four members of the St Mirren squad paid a visit to Accord Hospice.

Richard Tait, Charles Dunne, Richard Taylor and Toyosi Olusanya spent a heartwarming afternoon at the Paisley facility following Saints' 2-2 draw with Celtic on Saturday, May 20.

The players met with patients and staff at the Morton Avenue venue after their positive display in Glasgow’s east end.

Accord offers end-of-life care for people at its inpatient unit while also caring for dozens more in their own homes.

The St Mirren players were keen to visit the charity to highlight the invaluable work it does for people with life-limiting conditions and their families.

The footballers were visibly moved by the compassionate environment and the tireless efforts of the healthcare professionals, as they embarked on a comprehensive tour of the hospice.

The players met with patients receiving end-of-life care (Submitted)

Known for their skills on the field, they extended their support to those navigating difficult times, lending a helping hand and spreading cheer throughout the complex.

Jacki Smart, CEO of Accord Hospice, said the players’ visit was yet another example of St Mirren’s benevolence and compassion as a community club.

“We are incredibly grateful to St Mirren Football Club for taking the time to visit us and show their support,” she said. “Their presence has truly uplifted the spirits of our patients and staff.

“It means a lot to see such well-known figures engaging with our community, raising awareness about the work we do, and offering their support to those in need.”

The St Mirren players were delighted to raise awareness of Accord and its invaluable work (Submitted)

During their visit, the foursome engaged in meaningful conversations with patients and their families, offering words of encouragement, support, and sharing uplifting stories about life and the beautiful game.

The footballers also learned more about the holistic therapies offered in the Paisley-based hospice, such a reflexology, reiki and massage.

Accord provides palliative and end-of-life care to people living with or affected by a life limiting illness in Renfrewshire and parts of East Renfrewshire.

Reliant on public donations to do its work, the hospice supports more than 1,200 patients and their families each year.

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