Lions stars visit Lewisham Hospital
Buoyant following Friday night's excellent 1-0 victory at Brighton & HA, Millwall's first-team players including Republic of Ireland international David Forde, Alan Dunne, Danny Shittu and Scott McDonald paid their annual pre-Christmas visit to the children's wards at Lewisham Hospital on Monday afternoon.Zampa the Lion was joined by his friend Bolina, making her first ever visit to the Hospital and the furry duo proved to be a big hit with patients - and parents - of all ages!
The players handed out gifts including family tickets to The Den, scarves, calendars, posters and cuddly Zampas to youngsters in two children's wards and the children's A&E, which Millwall FC and the Save Lewisham Hospital campaign worked so strenuously together to save from closure last year.
"I think we're in a privileged position as professional football players and I don't take things for granted," said defender Danny. "A lot of people in the world are going through difficult stuff, so although it's nice to come here and speak to people, you don't want to see kids not being well.
The players handed out gifts including family tickets to The Den, scarves, calendars, posters and cuddly Zampas to youngsters in two children's wards and the children's A&E, which Millwall FC and the Save Lewisham Hospital campaign worked so strenuously together to save from closure last year.
"I think we're in a privileged position as professional football players and I don't take things for granted," said defender Danny. "A lot of people in the world are going through difficult stuff, so although it's nice to come here and speak to people, you don't want to see kids not being well.
"I was talking to a lady today for about 20 minutes because her young son had bronchiolitis, where they can't breathe by themselves. My son went through the same thing so I was able to give her advice and it was just nice to be there to offer a bit of support."
A camera crew from Sky were on hand to film the visit, along with the Lions Player team and a reporter from BBC London radio, so keep an eye out over the next day or two for special features.
A full gallery of photographs from today's visit will also appear on the website on Tuesday.
A full gallery of photographs from today's visit will also appear on the website on Tuesday.