Rugby players from Wigan Warriors stopped by their local children’s hospice to meet staff, volunteers and children this week.
The team looked around Chorley-based Derian House and learned more about what the hospice does to care for more than 450 families of seriously ill children from across the North West.
There were smiles all round as the rugby legends tested their sense of sight, smell, and taste in some sensory activities in the hospice messy play zone.
Things got competitive when Derian’s young people challenged the Warriors to a few games of boccia and curling, and a meditation session saw the team relax and unwind under the calming instruction of Derian’s family counsellor in a meditation session.
The visit ended with speeches as well as a group photo with the Wigan Warriors team.
Matt Peet, Head Coach of Wigan Warriors, said: “We’ve been blown away, not just by the services at Derian House but by the level of care that they provide for families. None of us want to have to need to use a hospice, but it’s comforting to see that these services are here to support families if they need it.
“It was very humbling for us all. We felt it when we went home over the weekend to spend time with our families. No matter what happens in our next few games, this experience has really put things into perspective for us all.”
Derian House provides respite and end-of-life care to more than 450 children and young people across the North West. In 2019 the hospice was rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission.
Lynn Grayson, Director of Clinical Services at Derian House, said: “It meant a lot to have the Wigan Warriors here. Not only did their visit bring joy to our young people but it also showed the staff how valued they all are. They do some amazing work.
“I’d like to thank the Wigan Warriors for giving us the opportunity to talk about and share what we do here. It is so important for us to raise awareness of our services so that the families who need us know we are here.
“I wish the Wigan Warriors the best of luck in their next game – I know there’ll be a few of us here cheering the team on!”
Wigan Warriors will take on the Leeds Rhinos in their next game on Friday (16 September). Find out more: https://www.wiganwarriors.com/
