I am a retired children’s nurse who worked in Croydon university hospital children’ ward Rupert Bear ward for 20 years. I have leg and back problems and unable to sky dive with the rest of the team, but I would like to contribute in my own way by walking. I know how important play is in the well-being of all children. For those who find themselves in hospital for what ever reason, it is even more important as through play, nurses,play specialists and doctors can use play to help them understand their illness and treatment and recovery process. 

 52,000young people living in Croydon require NHS care each year, for conditions ranging from diabetes to cancer. Play is a vital part of development for children and brings joy to little ones on a daily basis.

However, as part of the development of our brand new children's care unit, we are creating fun, therapeutic play spaces for young people.Many children find coming in to hospital scary and with your support, we can alleviate their fears and provide a welcome distraction from the often serious and long term illnesses they are living with.