Easter came early in Gosford
Easter came early to Gosford Hospital today when the NSW National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates (the Nashos) made a special delivery of Easter treats to patients on the Children’s Ward.
Willow, a patient at the Gosford Hospital Children's Ward, and her Mum receive an Easter Egg.
3 April 2024
Assisted by the Easter bunny, the Nashos brought smiles to the faces to Gosford Hospital Childrens Ward's smallest patients as chocolate eggs and bunnies were hand-delivered. To ensure that no-one missed out, they also brought alternative treats for those with allergies or on special diets.
The Nashos have been making Easter chocolate deliveries for 26 years. They have made it their mission to bring chocolate gifts to patients every year, even doing their best to continue deliveries during the pandemic. While they were unable to make a delivery in 2020, they resumed service the following year and gave their goodies to staff for distribution.
Over the years, it is estimated that the Nashos have donated over 6,000 chocolate eggs and special treats to the children of the Central Coast!
Greg Mawson, Secretary of the NSW National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates has been involved with the Easter egg deliveries since 1998 and said "it has been a privilege to see the joy it brings to patients.
“We love making the Easter deliveries because we get instant feedback – a smile, a thank you, some of the kids start unwrapping their eggs straight away!
"We didn’t anticipate that it would continue for 26 years but like the best traditions, it makes lots of people happy and we look forward to it every year!”
Sally Carey, Operational Nurse Manager, Paediatrics said, “The Nashos visits are a highlight every Easter. No one wants to be in hospital over a holiday period, it’s a difficult time for children and their families. Visits and unexpected treats like this bring so much joy to the children, their parents and staff. We’re very grateful to the Nashos for their support over so many years. Congratulations on an egg-cellent achievement!”
Who are the Nashos?
The NSW National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates is a voluntary organisation and has fundraised for many charities and worthwhile causes that are of benefit to the local community, in addition to a number of national and global disasters that have occurred. The NSW National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates are always seeking ex-service people who might wish to join the Gosford City Sub Branch for some social fun with those of similar interests.
Ex-service people include former Army, Navy and Air Force personnel, as well as those who have served in the Police, Ambulance or Fire Services. If you are interested, please contact Secretary Greg Mawson on 0412 059 345.