Image (L-R): Nashos Greg Mawson, Derek Crawford, Norm Wyburn and Graham Felton with CCLHD Child Life Therapist Gerri Murray and Acting Nurse Unit Manager of Wyong Paediatric Unit Sally Carey.
The NSW National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates (the Nashos) have continued their much-loved Easter tradition of making sure all patients spending Easter in Gosford Hospital’s Children’s Ward receive an Easter treat.
While COVID-19 restrictions meant that the Nashos were unable to personally deliver Easter eggs to patients this year, the generous bunch took the time to make a very special delivery to Gosford Hospital’s Child Life Therapist Gerri Murray, who will distribute them to patients on their behalf.
“The Nashos continue to hold a special place in the hearts of the patients, family members and staff in the Children’s Ward. We are sad they are unable to come in to visit this year but very grateful to them for making sure the patients didn’t miss out,” Ms Murray said.
This year, the Nashos also made an extra delivery to Acting Nurse Unit Manager of Wyong Paediatric Unit Sally Carey.
“We let the Nashos know that one of our regular patients is lactose intolerant and sure as ‘eggs’, there is even a special treat for that patient so nobody misses out,” Ms Carey said.
“The treats will be distributed over the Easter long weekend by the Easter Bunny and his helper, The Grinch – a favourite of some of our patients.”
Vice President Derek Crawford said the group always enjoys their special visit, which have been taking place for the past 24 years.
“The only year we missed was 2020 because of the pandemic. Our members get as much joy out of the visit as the patients do, knowing that our special delivery really helps cheer them up and lifts their spirits,” Mr Crawford said.
District Manager of Fundraising and Donations Jan Richens said the Nashos Easter visit was always a very welcome highlight.
“We definitely have to think outside the box because of COVID and it is really important to us to do whatever we can to have this generous group bring loads of Easter joy to our patients, visitors and staff,” Ms Richens said.
“It’s quite extraordinary the difference this will make to a patient’s day. Chocolate can make every day better and we are very grateful for the Nashos’ continued generosity.”
Who are the Nashos? The NSW National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates is a voluntary organisation and has fundraised for many charities and worthwhile causes that are of benefit to the local community, in addition to a number of national and global disasters that have occurred. The NSW National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates are always seeking ex-service people who might wish to join the Gosford City Sub Branch for some social fun with those of similar interests. Ex-service people include former Army, Navy and Air Force personnel, as well as those who have served in the Police, Ambulance or Fire Services. If you are interested, please contact Secretary Greg Mawson on 0412 059 345