Newcastle United co-owner Mehrdad Ghodoussi helped to put smiles on the faces of poorly youngsters when he surprised them at a special event at St James' Park.
Dozens of children undergoing treatment at the Great North Children’s Hospital in Newcastle were invited to the ground to enjoy a day of games and acitivies organised by the Newcastle United Foundation. But it was while they were there that Mehrdad Ghodoussi made a surprise appearance to the delight of the courageous youngsters.
The Newcastle United part-owner showed his caring side when he took the time to get to know all of the children and their families individually. The children also got to meet with players from Newcastle United Women including Georgia Gibson and Sharna Wilkinson.
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Steve Beharall, head of Newcastle United Foundation, said: “It was our pleasure to welcome so many children and their families to St James’ Park and give them the opportunity to do things as a family which they otherwise may not have been able to do.
"Hospital stays and medical treatment can be very difficult for children and young people, as well as their families, and the support from our staff working on the wards makes a huge difference.
“We aim to help maintain and build self-confidence by keeping young patients active, entertained, and engaged at a time when they really need additional support.”
Through funding from the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Newcastle Hospitals Charity, Newcastle United Foundation staff work year-round with young patients and their families at the Great North Children’s Hospital (GNCH) paediatric oncology wards, providing vital respite support through activities, games and team building.
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