Stargazing LIVE presenter gives telescopes to young oncology patients

Mark Thompson presenting a telescope to young NNUH oncology patient

Young NNUH oncology patients were over the moon when they were presented gifts which will help them see the night sky for all its beauty.

TV presenter, Mark Thompson of popular series ‘Stargazing LIVE’ presented telescopes to 12 children at the Jenny Lind Children’s Department on behalf of local charity, Reach for a Star.

Mr Thompson, who is a patron for the charity, presented the telescopes as part of their ‘Reaching the Stars’ programme, which aims to give quality beginners telescopes to children fighting life threatening conditions. He spoke to each of the children and their parents and presented them all a goody bag too.

Reach for a Star was set up by James Lewis after his four year old son, William, was diagnosed with cancer. During William’s treatment and late night visits to hospital, he became fascinated with the stars.

This is the third year the charity has kindly donated telescopes to the N&N.

Louise Cook, Fundraising Manager for the Trust said: “We are very fortunate to have the support of Reach for a Star which enables children to have their own chance to explore the big universe and dream about other worlds and planets.”

Rosie Larkins, Specialist Nurse in Paediatric Oncology said: “Speaking on behalf of the paediatric oncology team, this is a wonderful and generous gift for our children and young people during times that are often difficult for them and their families. The gift of a telescope may lead to a lifelong fascination and interest in astronomy. We would like to thank the charity for giving them this opportunity.”

Emma Mckay, Director of Nursing said: “We are very grateful to receive such generous gifts for the third year in a row. The telescopes will give our nurses different opportunities to engage with patients, where they can talk with them about new and exciting experiences and learning whilst they are receiving care with us”.

For more information about Reach for a Star visit their website