Children in hospital don’t miss out on World Book Day
Poorly children at Southend Hospital who thought they were going to miss out on World Book Day celebrations were made to feel a part of this special day, thanks to a local independent book shop.
Jacqson Diego Story Emporium, in London Road, Westcliff, delivered pages of adventure and escapism to young patients on Neptune Ward, and also took a box of books to the Ladybird Nursery on the hospital site.
Clair Gentry, a play assistant on the children’s ward, said: “It was a lovely surprise for children on our wards to get books this World Book Day. As they’re not at school, they would have missed out on the activities, so it really made them feel special and part of the day. Getting a fantastic free book also helped take their mind off being in hospital.”
As well as bringing joy to children on the ward, it was also a delight for those who were giving the books.
Jacqueline Johnson, from Jacqson Diego Story Emporium, said: “We love World Book Day. Getting books into the hands of children is at the centre of what we do. Sharing World Book Day with the Neptune Ward and the Ladybird Nursery has become one of our traditions – nothing can replace the joy of seeing a child matched with ‘their’ book!”