GREENOCK businessmen James and Sandy Easdale — owners of the McGill’s bus group — have donated £25,000 to Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.
The money will go towards the hospital play programme which provides joy, comfort and essential emotional support for hundreds of young patients.
The donation was made during the charity’s annual fundraising ball at the Hilton Glasgow on Friday.
The Easdale brothers’ latest contribution brings their total donations, and those of McGill’s Group, to the charity to more than £155,000, continuing a partnership that spans more than 15 years.
McGill’s Group was represented at the ball by chairman Ralph Roberts, and digital marketing executive, Gillian Easdale-Fisher.
The charity’s play programme delivers more than 40,000 hours of play each year for children being treated at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.
Play specialists, supported by the charity’s dedicated play team and volunteers, help children understand their treatment, reduce anxiety and create moments of normality and joy during often long and difficult hospital stays.
Sandy Easdale said: “The Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity continues to do incredible work for children across Scotland. We’ve seen first-hand the difference their projects make, and it’s a privilege to contribute to something that brings light and hope during such tough times.”
James Easdale added: “Play might seem simple, but in hospital it’s absolutely vital. It helps children make sense of what’s happening to them, lifts their spirits and supports their recovery. We’re proud that McGill’s can help make that happen for so many young patients and their families.”
Kirsten Watson, chief executive of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “Once again, words fail to convey the depth of our gratitude to Sandy, James and the whole team at McGill’s. Their incredible donation of £25,000, match-funding the amount raised by our guests who made a pledge to support the play programme, will ensure that thousands of children will have the chance to play in hospital.
“McGill’s are a generous, steadfast partner of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, and their kindness has touched the lives of so many families during the hardest days of their lives. We would like to express our sincere thanks once again to Sandy and James for all that they have done for our children and families throughout their years of support.”
In addition to their regular donations, the Easdale brothers also provide free use of the McGill’s Group’s state-of-the-art touring coach fleet for outings arranged by the charity, helping children and families enjoy memorable experiences away from the hospital environment.
