Much-loved festive snowflake displays return to help Sheffield Children’s Hospital

A highlight of the festive season for many, The Children’s Hospital Charity’s award-winning initiative has raised over £1m since 2013.

The charity is appealing to as many of the local community to get involved as possible, with fundraising hard hit due to the coronavirus pandemic. This year’s display will support Sheffield Children’s where it is needed most, including by the redevelopment of the hospital’s cancer and leukaemia ward.

Made from Sheffield steel, many of the snowflakes have been handmade by volunteers.

Each snowflake is sponsored by a business, school, group or individual.

In return for pledging to raise funds, each sponsor sees their snowflake sparkle with an attached name tag.

They can be found at Sheffield Children’s, including Western Bank, the Becton Centre for Children and Young People and the Ryegate Children’s Centre.

Snowflakes will also light up Pinstone Street in Sheffield, Crystal Peaks Shopping Centre and the Alhambra Shopping Centre in Barnsley.

Sheffield Children’s has remained open throughout the coronavirus pandemic and continues to care for some of the most vulnerable children in the community.

Alfie Powell’s family know just how vital that care is.

Alfie, from Barnsley, was suddenly taken ill in July 2018 and was diagnosed with a Wilms’ tumour, which is a cancer of the kidneys.

He underwent weekly doses of chemotherapy and had surgery to remove his tumour and kidney. He entered remission in March 2019, just in time for his third birthday.

Alfie’s dad Aaron said: “I had never heard of the snowflake appeal until we were living on the cancer and leukaemia ward with Alfie.

"To see the lights shining as we travelled to Sheffield Children’s for his chemotherapy over the winter months always raised a smile for us.

“The snowflakes are symbols of support from local people and businesses that wish to help improve the experience for children from across the region that require treatment.”

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