By Isle of Wight Observer
Isle of Wight Rotary is asking Islanders to come together to help refurbish the children’s ward garden at St. Mary’s Hospital.
For years, children have enjoyed using the garden, but now it requires some much-needed attention to create a fabulous new look, including improved wheelchair access.
Originally established in memory of a young patient, named James Sparks, the garden aims to benefit more Isle of Wight children in the future, offering quiet areas, play areas, and spaces for families.
The plan is to transform the space by laying maintenance-free composite decking, which will be furnished by members of the IOW NHS Youth Forum in collaboration with local charity, Artswork. To fund the decking, Isle of Wight Rotary needs to raise £13,000, and wants to do so by the end of January.
Each £50 donation will sponsor a decking board, and the names of donors will be recognized on a ‘family tree’ in the ward.
Business and private donations are all appreciated, and the group is also encouraging individuals or groups to organise fund-raising events, such as tea parties, quizzes or local collections. The support of the local community is crucial to this project.
Rotarian, Michele Newton said: “Please consider being a part of this fantastic project and help our young Islanders to enjoy this valuable outdoor place which can improve a stay in hospital.
“Our Isle of Wight Rotary Facebook page will have information, updates and the names of the sponsors as they come in. Let’s do it!”
Donations can be made through the Isle of Wight Rotary website, isleofwightrotary.org or via Bacs payable to Rotary Club of Cowes: Sort code: 52-30-04, Account number: 05522498. Please include the reference GARDEN. For cheque donations or any questions about the project, please contact Michele on 07767 702872.
