support children in hospital this winter?

We'd like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has kindly donated in support of our Winter Appeal over the last few weeks.

Since we launched the appeal back in November, we've been blown away by the response - and your generosity and goodwill has helped us raise an incredible £29,000 so far. But we still have a long way to go to reach our target. Could you help us provide extra support for seriously ill children in hospital?

Your generous donations could help us support children like Oscar, who was admitted to the Grand Union ward at St Mary's Hospital last year for a bone marrow transplant.

Oscar lives with an extremely rare medical condition called DiamondBlackfan anaemia, which prevents his bone marrow from producing red blood cells. For several months Oscar's family have made St Mary's their home - but the conditions are far from ideal.

More comfortable facilities and better play equipment would dramatically improve his experience of being in hospital.

"You hope your child is never admitted to hospital but, should they need that expert care, St Mary's is exactly the place for them to be," said Kathi and Henry, Oscar's parents.

"Oscar has received outstanding care throughout his time at St Mary's but the ward environment and facilities are in desperate need of love and attention."

With your support this winter we will be able to make a real difference for children like Oscar. Turn to page 12 to make a donation today.