Her Royal Highness, The Countess of Wessex delighted patients, families and staff at the Leeds Children’s Hospital at Leeds General Infirmary when she visited to open a new children’s cardiac ward.
The Countess, who is Royal Patron of the Leeds Children’s Hospital, met youngsters who had recently undergone, or who are waiting for, surgery for congenital heart conditions.
[private] Commemorating the ward opening, the Countess cut a giant heart-shaped cake made by Staff Nurse, Louise Murphy. On hand to help with the ceremony was young heart patient, Preston Winterman, aged 7.
Ward L51 is a new 19-bed paediatric cardiac ward with its own 6-bed high dependency unit. The ward has moved from its former location in Jubilee Wing, bringing it closer to the children’s intensive care and cardiac theatres in Clarendon Wing.
Clinical Director of Leeds Children’s Hospital, Dr Mike Richards said: “It was a wonderful day, the children and their families were obviously very excited to see the Countess and our staff were honoured that she agreed to open the new cardiac ward.
“We are very grateful for the support of Her Royal Highness in dedicating what is a fantastic new facility for our young heart patients. We are especially indebted for her sustained support for the hospital.”
The Countess also visited children and families on the children’s kidney and liver units in Jubilee Wing. She also met young participants in this year’s Transplant Games.
This is the third time The Countess has visited Leeds Children’s Hospital; she became Royal Patron of the hospital after performing the official opening in 2012. [/private]