Ten-year-old patient donates gaming consoles to children on Broomfield’s burns ward

We are so pleased to celebrate an extraordinary act of kindness from ten‑year‑old former patient, Seth Patterson, who donated a brand‑new PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, games and activities for children staying on Broomfield Hospital’s children’s burns ward, back in December.

Seth, from Norfolk, was admitted to the ward after sustaining significant burns to both of his feet. During his stay, he underwent skin graft treatment and received specialist care from the burns team, spending five nights on the ward followed by numerous outpatient appointments.

His dad, Adam, said: “Seth was looked after amazingly by the team on the ward and what was a horrific situation was made considerably better by the care and support, he received. While on the ward Seth had access to an Xbox and tv which made a big difference.

“The staff on the ward are incredible, so much so that on Seth’s last visit for physio he asked if he could stay one more night as he enjoyed the attention and laughter, they all provided.”

Inspired by the equipment provided during his recovery, Seth decided he wanted to help other young patients. With the support of family, friends and colleagues, Seth and his parents raised £1,000, allowing them to purchase the new consoles and games for the ward.

Senior Sister of the children’s burns ward, Tanya Bradd, expressed her gratitude, saying: “Seth and his family went through such a traumatic time due to his burn injury and for them to be able to think of others shows so much strength and kindness.

“It is an incredible feat for them to raise so much money for the ward and purchase new games consoles and other items to help children during their stays in hospital and also for distraction during difficult procedures. We are so grateful for what they have achieved and it will make a huge difference for our children and their families.”

We are proud to support incredible gestures like Seth’s, which help enhance patient experience across Basildon, Broomfield and Southend Hospitals.

If you’ve been inspired by Seth’s story and would like to support the children’s burns ward or other areas of our hospitals, donations can be made via our website, here. Every contribution helps the charity continue providing the extras that make a real difference to patients and their families.