Michael Rosen supports intensive care library donation

Evelina London Children's Hospital welcomed acclaimed British author, poet, and broadcaster, Michael Rosen, to intensive care to open a newly donated library.

The UK charity Spread a Smile donated 2 book libraries to Evelina London as part of their Intensive Care Library Project. The project aims to help very unwell children and their families to find comfort and calm in hospital through the familiar activity of reading together.

Michael met patients, families and staff on the ward, hearing how valuable the libraries will be for them. The highlight of the afternoon was a special reading by Michael of his famous book We're Going on a Bear Hunt.

Selena Matti, mother of 3-month-old Otis, said:

It was so nice to feel like we're doing something normal that you do with your baby, because everything is so clinical. To just be parents with your baby having a story read is lovely.

Alex, Otis's dad, said: "We've been reading to Otis pretty much every day. We're getting through the Roald Dahls and obviously we've read We're Going on a Bear Hunt a lot. It's just great to take a moment to try and have a bit of normality."

Michael said: "Reading is an incredibly powerful art form which enables us to explore and access so many exciting subjects and adventures. From the day a baby is born, they are soaking up the sounds, sights, smells, tastes and touch of the world around them.

"Reading with children is a wonderful way of connecting with them, giving them something interesting to focus on, engage with and learn from.

This shared experience can bring so much to both the child and the person reading to them as both are captured in that moment of discovery, sharing reactions and emotions as the story progresses.

The intensive care unit at Evelina London provides complex care for critically ill babies and children. It is the lead centre for the south Thames region, caring for over 700 of the sickest babies, children and young people each year.

Alongside the clinical care on the unit, Evelina London's dedicated play specialists provide support for sick children and their families. They facilitate activities like this visit at the bed or cot-side to support bonding and aid recovery.

Janet Powell, director of nursing at Evelina London, said: "We are so grateful to Spread a Smile for this generous donation and brightening our week with this fantastic event. Michael Rosen has authored some of our patients' favourite children's books, and it was such a privilege to have him come read to us.

At Evelina London, we are dedicated to ensuring that children have the best possible experience in hospital. Our visits from Spread a Smile help create a relaxing environment and bring so much joy to all the patients, families and staff on our wards.

The majority of books for the libraries have been generously donated by the charity Emmie's Books, which was set up by Lindsay and Andy McPartland whose daughter Emmie was diagnosed with cancer when she was 14 weeks old. Publishers Penguin, Macmillan and Scholastic also donated books for the libraries.