One of the young patients under the care of our Children’s Community Nursing Team had a special trip to London recently to turn the Christmas lights on in Oxford Street - joining star singer, songwriter and musician Tom Grennan to launch the seasonal illuminations in the capital.
Seven-year-old Emily Mullen, from Lowestoft, was born with a severe heart condition and has been cared for by Great Ormond Street Hospital since she was rushed there at just one day old. Emily underwent open heart surgery at seven days old but faced complications including severe sight loss, problems with her kidneys and multiple conditions that she continues to receive treatment for.
She remains under the care of Great Ormond Street but is also looked after by the James Paget Children’s Community Nursing Team and our children’s ward team.
Emily and her family have supported the Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, appearing in adverts to promote the hospital’s work, leading to her unique honour – to switch on Oxford Street's Christmas Lights in partnership with the Charity.
After a countdown, Emily joined Tom in flipping the switch which illuminated 300,000 white star lights along the key shopping street in London.
The Children`s Community Nurses says they are super proud of their much loved little Emily.
Maxine Howes, Senior Sister for the James Paget based team, said; “Emily is well known to all Paediatric staff at the James Paget and I`m sure we would all agree she truly deserved this special treat because she is one phenomenal little girl.”
Emily, who received the full VIP treatment, said; ‘’I loved making the lights all pretty and shopping with Santa”.
