“Generosity is the most natural outward expression of an inner attitude of compassion and loving kindness.”– Dalai Lama
This #GivingTuesday, we asked some of the little patients at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital (RCWMCH) to help us define generosity. For many of them, generosity is more than just receiving the tangible wellness of their bodies; generosity is the gift of timeless wellbeing of spirit. It is kindness that remains. Kindness in healing with dignity and love. Kindness in hoping for a brighter day, a better future. Kindness: knowing that they are not just a statistic, but a child with a story and a future.
A special little girl holds her mom’s hand. She has had a hard time fitting in at school, and it has affected her health. “When I was at Red Cross, the doctor was so kind; she talked to me about my feelings,” she says. Her smile tells us that she knows we care. She knows someone is listening; someone is paying attention.
If all you are doing right now is paying attention, then you are already helping. And we are so grateful for you.
GENEROSITY AND GRATITUDE GO HAND IN HAND
The generosity of each donor enables the RCWMCH to create a safe and holistic environment for patients like Ghaafitha and Imaan to heal. This is the story of two little girls who met in the corridors of the new Emergency Centre as they patiently waited to be seen by the doctor. A beautiful friendship blossomed between the two little girls.
Ghaafitha (left) was rushed to the Emergency Centre when she accidentally fell and broke her arm, whilst playing marbles with her much-loved brother. Imaan (right) also suffered an awful fall while riding her bike.
Despite these two little girls recovering with their mothers by their side, it was no coincidence that the childlike spirit of kindness prevailed and leaped beyond the pain of a broken arm and a few injuries.
What can you see?
When we look at you, we see grace, love, honour, respect, hope and kindness. When we look at you, we see generosity.
In the smallest outdoor space just outside the dispensary, children share in a game. Even with masks on, you can see the smiles on their faces. They generously make space for each other, generously welcome each other, and generously open their hearts to each other while their parents wait inside. Some of them travel long distances lasting up to two or more hours. A mom from Vredenberg smiles as she tells us that the Social Work Services has arranged travel for her and her child. It is such a weight off her shoulders. Generosity made it possible. Your generosity!
GIVE WITH A PURPOSE
Join us, and the many little patients at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, as we reflect on generosity. What does generosity mean to you?
Perhaps all you see when you give, is what has left your hand, and not how it serves another. Perhaps you have forgotten what generosity means, and what your gift means to another. At the Children’s Hospital Trust, we believe that every gift is special, no matter how big or small – it all adds to the broader vision of helping little patients, because every little one counts.
On this #GivingTuesday, open your heart and hands with a precious gift of intention and purpose.
With every little that you give, you are helping little patients at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital receive the much-needed, life-saving healthcare that they deserve! Click here to read the latest EC Report.
Generosity grows and builds; together we can raise the last R1 million needed to complete the new Emergency Centre.
Give, and give generously. Thank you!
