A YOUNG Lydney lad plans a Christmas surprise for children at the hospital where he and his brothers were treated for a total of six months after a tragic road accident.
Sad to hear that the children will spend Christmas on the neurology ward at Bristol Children’s Hospital, Ethan Rose decided to save up eight weeks’ worth of pocket money and ask locals for donations.
Ethan and brothers, Noah and Finley, were treated at the hospital after the accident in which a motorist died.
The 10-year-old, St John’s-on-the-Hill pupil in Tutshill, also appealed on his school’s website for help.
Proud mum, Kirsti Rose said: “Ethan really deserves some recognition for his hard work. He was so sad to hear that the children on the ward will be spending Christmas in hospital that he wanted to do something to help.
“He receives £5 a week, so over eight weeks saved £40 to buy gifts such as playdough, books and puzzles.
“With local support he has enough gifts to fill four sacks. People have been so generous, we can’t thank them enough.”
In February Ethan was travelling with his two brothers and their stepfather when their car collided with another vehicle on the A48 at Stroat killing a 21-year-old maths teacher who worked at the Dean Academy in Stroat.
Ethan said: “The ward that we were in was an amazing place; not only the nurses, cleaners, chefs and doctors but, most importantly, the children.
“I was struck by how strong they were, including my brother.
“They never moaned, were always smiling and never asked for much, apart from getting better.
“Some of the children had nasty brain injuries and I used to play my recorder to them because the nurses said music may help them relax.
“These children are the most courageous, strong and amazing people I’ve ever met and they deserve the best Christmas possible; as for some it could be their last.”
He added: “Thank you to everyone who has donated gifts, money and chocolate. I’m very grateful for your support and I know the children are going to be even more thankful.”
Donations can be made at the Orchard Stores in Orchard Road, Lydney until 10am tomorrow (Thursday) and Ethan will take the gifts to the hospital later on Christmas Eve.