Children’s hospital takes to the seas
Instead of a tale of two cities, it was the tale of the novel twinning of a naval vessel called the LE Eithne and Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children in Crumlin, Dublin.
To kick-start their relationship, it was all hands on deck yesterday when children and crew got together and plenty of quarter was given.
Commander Mark Mellett and the ship’s company played host to a gleeful gaggle of youngsters relieved to break from the monotony of hospital wards.
After lunching at the captain’s table, the youthful troupe was treated to a tour of the vessel and a chance to witness first hand the wonders of advanced communication technology. Next up was a lesson on sea rescue operations and an interesting insight into the role of specialised divers.
To lessen the tedium of returning to their hospital beds, the Civil Defence stepped in with a convoy of ambulances and fire engines to ensure the children returned in style.
Not content with entertaining on board, some of the ship’s crew surprised the children back at the hospital with a special visit later in the afternoon.
Chief executive at Our Lady’s, Gerry O’Dwyer, paid tribute to the Navy and the Civil Defence for bringing a dash a colour to lives denied many of childhood’s privileges by sickness.
“The children had a fabulous day,” he said, “They (the Navy) have provided great excitement for our sick children.”
Geraldine Regan, Director of Nursing, said the ongoing commitment of naval personnel and recruit classes in helping out children’s wards around the country was greatly appreciated.
Commander Mellet said the twinning arrangement would incorporate fun days for sick children and families on board the LE Eithne, as well as assisting in fundraising activities in aid of the hospital.
“We are delighted to be associated with Our Lady’s which is committed to providing each child and family with the highest standard of health care,” he said.
