Doctors and nurses on Ysbyty Gwynedd’s Children’s Ward paid tribute to local charity Gafael Llaw at a special thanksgiving event on the ward.

Since it was set up in June 2013, Gafael Llaw has raised £150,000 to support local children with cancer. As well as supporting new facilities and a Welsh Language library in Alder Hey hospital, the charity has given £20,000 to fund activities and events organised for families affected by childhood cancer.

Gafael Llaw has also donated over £30,000 to support a dedicated room on the ward for children living with cancer, new medical equipment and artwork on the ward, and the much loved outdoor play area. The group are now working closely with nursing staff to develop plans for a sensory room on the ward.

Jo Douglas, Children’s Service Manager, said: “We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of the Gafael Llaw committee and the charity’s many supporters. The money this group and others raise makes a real difference to the children on the ward.

“Through their hard work, organising fundraising events and encouraging local communities to get involved in their fundraising efforts, Gafael Llaw have helped brighten up the ward, enhance the care we can provide and put lots of smiles on our patients’ faces. We really can’t thank them enough.”

Meinir Williams, Ysbyty Gwynedd’s Hospital Director, added: “Gafael Llaw’s donations to our children’s services will continue to make a difference for years to come. We are very proud of the partnership we have with Gafael Llaw and thank everyone who has got behind the charity for the help they have given.

“There are some exciting improvements being planned on the ward now, and we are delighted that Gafael Llaw will be supporting these important developments.” Iwan Trefor Jones, Chairman of Gafael Llaw, explains why the charity has been so successful at raising money. He said: “The local community has been very supportive from the beginning as they know all the money raised through Gafael Llaw goes to help support local families.

“The committee has been hugely committed, spending hours organising events including the Tour de Cymru bike ride around Wales, golf and cricket challenges and fun runs. Their commitment and determination has inspired others to volunteer, businesses to sponsor events, and schools and community groups to organise their own events and activities.

“On behalf of all of the Gafael Llaw committee I’d like to thank everyone who has supported us and who continue to do so. We saw again at the thanksgiving event what a huge difference donations to Gafael Llaw are making and we are more passionate than ever to make a difference for children with cancer in this region.”