After more than two years Manchester City’s women’s team made a welcome return to Francis House Children’s Hospice on their annual Christmas visit.
Four players from the squad including Ellie Roebuck, Mary Fowler, Alex Greenwood and Leila Ouahabi handed out gift bags, signed water bottles, scarves, fleeces, and teddy bears to the children and young people receiving respite care at the hospice.
During the visit, the players were shown into the lounge of the teenage and young adult unit and chatted to the families. City fans Helen Davies and twelve-year-old Megan chatted to the players and posed for cherished photographs.
Helen said: “It means such a lot that the players came here today. It is very difficult for Megan to access activities, so for these players to spend this time here today is really appreciated. We are massive City fans; my husband has been a season ticket holder for more than fifty years.”
Striker, Mary Fowler said: “It is nice to come here today and meet with the children and families and connect with the community. It is good to have a club that encourages us to do visits like this.”
Goalkeeper, Ellie Roebuck said: “As players we are in a privileged position so it is really good that we can give something back to the local community. It is so important that we show them support, they support us as fans, and it is good to give something back.”
Connor Shaw, 23, beamed after meeting Alex Greenwood. Connor said: “It was surreal to meet the players. It has been an amazing experience.”
Based in Didsbury, Francis House Children’s Hospice provides care and support to more than 550 families of children and young people with life-limiting conditions. The hospice provides a range of services including respite care, homecare, sibling support and end of life care and bereavement support. The hospice relies on charitable donations to fund the majority of its £12,900 daily running costs.
To donate to Francis House this Christmas visitwww.francishouse.org.uk/christmas-appeal-2022
