Story by Patience Nyagato
CHILDREN receiving treatment at Sally Mugabe Children’s Hospital were given a welcome dose of festive cheer on Tuesday after StarBrite, working with several partners, delivered an early Christmas celebration at the facility.
The outreach, now an annual tradition, brought gifts, snacks and entertainment to young patients, while also offering emotional support to parents and caregivers who are spending the festive season in hospital wards rather than at home.
For many mothers, the visit provided a rare moment of relief during an otherwise difficult period.
“We are very grateful because spending the festive season in the hospital with a sick child is not easy. It means a lot that someone remembered us and came to bring smiles to our children. This has really lifted our spirits.
“Being here during the holidays is difficult, but today we felt cared for. The gifts and the visit have brought joy to our children and hope to us as parents,” mothers at the hospital said.
StarBrite Executive Director, Barney Mpariwa, said the outreach has become an annual tradition, adding that giving back does not have to be limited to big institutions, but can start with small acts of kindness in local communities.
“Since 2013, we have been coming here around the Christmas period to make the season special for children who are in the hospital. We believe that if you are in a position of influence, you should use that influence to help those who may not be able to help themselves. Giving back does not have to be at a big institution; even small acts of kindness in your local community, at a children’s home, or a nursing home, can make a difference,” he said.
The partnership of Starbrite, Power FM, as well as several models, among them Miss International Yolanda Chimbarami, whose presence added colour and excitement to the celebrations, brought joy, laughter, and a sense of togetherness, reminding families at the hospital that they are not alone during the holidays.
