In a heartwarming festive gesture, staff from a Derby primary school brought the magic of Christmas directly to a young pupil who was too unwell to attend the school's special event.
A Festive Disappointment Turned into a Special Delivery
Eight-year-old Michal Winter, a pupil at Firs Primary School in Derby, had been eagerly counting down to his year three's 'Breakfast with Santa' event. However, weeks before Christmas, he was admitted to the Royal Derby Hospital. Michal lives with Harlequin Ichthyosis, a rare and incurable skin condition, which meant he was unable to leave the ward for the celebration he had been so excited about.
Paula Martin, headteacher at Firs Primary, explained the school's immediate reaction. "We knew how excited Michal was to see Santa and were absolutely heartbroken for him when he couldn't attend," she said. "So we decided to take Santa to him instead."
The Christmas Team Makes a Ward Visit
The school quickly assembled a festive delegation to visit the hospital. Ms Martin herself took on the role of Mrs Claus, while the vice chair of governors, Steve Rogers, became Santa. They were joined by school business manager David Jones, who completed the trio as an elf.
Armed with gifts and treats, the team made their way to the hospital ward to ensure Michal didn't miss out on the festive fun. "He looked completely shocked when we walked in and then just so happy," Ms Martin recalled. "It was a really special moment."
A Quiet Joy and a Community Effort
Michal's father, Sebastian Winter, shared what the surprise meant for his son. "The visit was a huge moment for Michal," he said. "He had been so upset knowing he wouldn't be able to attend the event that he has been looking forward to for so long."
Mr Winter noted that while Michal didn't have his usual high energy on the day of the visit, the impact was profound. "The quiet joy of him being there was incredibly special and exactly the boost he needed. Seeing him so happy there is incredibly reassuring for us," he added.
The school's kindness extended beyond Michal. The team also left Christmas treats for other children on the ward and delivered cards from Michal's classmates, spreading festive cheer throughout the hospital.
Sarah Clark, chief executive officer of the DDAT (Diocese of Derby Academies Trust), expressed her pride in the school's actions. "I am incredibly proud of how the school supports Michal and consistently goes above and beyond for him, as they do for all of our pupils," she stated.
"This level of care is something I am proud to see across all of our schools. We know Michal is a big fan of school, and it gives us great comfort to know that he feels happy, supported and cared for," Ms Clark concluded.
