A LOCAL woman is collecting donations for the Paediatric Oncology Ward at University Hospital Wales this month.

Lucy Smith lives in Bonvilston, and saw a Facebook post from Anne Jensen asking for donations of sweets and treats for the Rainbow Ward.

Anne's grandson was diagnosed with leukaemia aged 6 months, so she has spent a lot of time on the ward and seen the need for donations.

"The nurses say it's the same food as any other paediatric unit, and so the children don't often get sweets and treats," Lucy told Nub News.

"They totally rely on donations to the unit, as there's only one vending machine for the whole ward. Plus, the Coronavirus restrictions prevent the parents from going out to buy items.

"Some of the chemotherapy treatment is so gruelling that they can't eat for weeks at a time and the only thing they can face is a bit of chocolate.

"A sweet might help them get through having injections or taking medication, as a distraction.

"It's Christmas and because of all the restrictions the children can't have the normal things like a visit from Santa, and all the decorations," she said.

Lucy is organising for donations from Cowbridge and the surrounding villages to be delivered to the Rainbow Ward by 17 December.

There are also three collections happening in Cardiff. The group is asking for:

• Canned drinks
• Small juice cartons
• Multipack crisps and snacks
• Chocolate selection boxes
• Bags of sweets
• Long-life muffins and cakes

The items must be sealed and long-life. Staff on the ward will disinfect the items and scrutinise the ingredients, in case of allergies.

"It's a no brainer for me as a parent. Hopefully parents can sympathise with being in the position of having to spend the holidays in hospital," said Lucy.

"Just adding an extra box or packet to your trolley when you're shopping will make a difference.

"Parents would usually but these things for end of term parties, but as there's less this year I'm hoping that people would still want to donate to something.

"People can just add an extra pack or two into their trolleys, as they're buying these things for Christmas anyway," she said.

To donate, message Lucy on Facebook to arrange a time.