Cool Cymru Collection

The Noah's Ark Appeal

Until recently, Wales was the only country in Europe that did not have a dedicated children's hospital. Determined to change the situation and ensure that children in Wales should have access to the same care as other children throughout Europe, a group of dedicated people began a campaigning for a dedicated Children's Hospital for Wales.

Their tireless lobbying finally resulted in the National Assembly's approval for the project to go ahead with the money for the building to be raised through a charitable capital appeal.

The Noah's Ark Appeal was set up in May 2000 to raise the money needed to build the first phase of the first children's hospital for Wales. Many people, across Wales and beyond, were spurred into action to support the cause. At the beginning of the Cool Cymru Collection process Terry Morris approached the charity with an idea that would celebrate Welsh talent through an iconic photography collection and benefit the hospital financially. It proved to be a rewarding relationship.

The first phase of the Children's Hospital for Wales opened its doors to its first patients in February 2005. In stark contrast to the rundown paediatric wards, the Children's Hospital for Wales is bright, welcoming and child-friendly; it has been built with a child's perspective in mind. Floor patterns lead the way along each of the themed wards and nurses' stations are illuminated from below to guide children back to their rooms.

Interactive art features on the walls of the hospital have the effect of making the hospital bright and cheerful and also a distraction from illness. Parents' needs are also catered for with pulldown beds for overnight stays and dedicated kitchen and rest areas.

Without the support and generosity of so many people, including star names, the Appeal couldn't have achieved what it has so far. However, it is vital that the Noah's Ark Appeal continues fundraising to support additional projects and facilities at the hospital to provide world-class care for generations of sick children in Wales.

To help please telephone 029 2033 5016 or visit www.noahs-ark-appeal.org

In support of the Noah's Ark Appeal - raising money to build and equip the first Children's Hospital for Wales.

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