Zoe donates birthday and Christmas presents to help beat the boredom on Bramble

Zoe Drew, 22 from Sidmouth, has donated box-loads of toys and games to Bramble Ward at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital to help entertain young patients.

This year, instead of asking for birthday and Christmas presents from her family and friends, Zoe asked for gifts that could be donated to the children’s ward to help patients beat the boredom whilst in hospital.

Zoe said: “In August 2014 I had an illness that led to me being in a wheelchair. I’ve spent the last 17 months coming in and out of hospital, so I know how boring it can be in here.” 

She recently visited the Bramble Playroom to hand over her collection of brand new board games, puzzles and building blocks to staff. Although she has never spent time on Bramble herself, she was keen that the children there could enjoy some fun and games whilst receiving treatment.

Bramble Play Specialist Cara Bennett said: “it’s lovely that Zoe has chosen to support the children on Bramble in this way. We know that our patients really appreciate a bit of fun and distraction whilst they are here, so these toys will make a big difference.  

"We were also glad to hear that she may have got one or two presents to keep for herself after being so thoughtful and thinking of others.”