On Saturday 28th June Frankie was taken to Royal Derby A&E with a temperature and a swollen hand. The doctor identified he had an infection and we were told later that evening he needed surgery on his hand to remove the fluid and wash out the wound. Frankie had developed sceptic arthritis.

Frankie was admitted to Puffin Ward. The surgery was successful but after a couple of days it was discovered the virus he had was rare and could be very dangerous, therefore he needed 4-6 weeks of IV medication.

Frankie stayed on Puffin ward for 5 days and thereafter was required to visit daily for a 4 week course of IV antibiotics. Frankie required two further surgeries to fit more long term lines to administer his IV medication.

Throughout this time the saving grace on the ward was the children’s play area. Looked after by the play therapists a range of toys and activities were available every day for the children on the ward to help to distract them from any illness or pain. Frankie’s favourite was the pushchair and the digger! This valuable resource really does put a smile on the children’s faces and is important to keep them entertained during their hospital stay and visits.

This year I am running London marathon to raise funds for the play team on Puffin Ward, so they can continue to provide children with enjoyable experiences during their stay in hospital.

Thank you to all the staff on Puffin Ward for all of your kindness during Frankie’s admission and for making him better!