A CHRISTMAS lights switch-on event has returned to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary (DGRI) after a three year absence, bringing cheer to staff and visitors.
The event last Friday saw staff and visitors assemble at the main doors of the hospital to see it illuminated.
Five-year-old Naomi True pushed the button to light up the giant tree in front of the hospital, having been invited due to regular visits to the hospital as a patient in the Children’s Ward.
Her mum Michelle Dunn said: “Naomi was born with a pancreatic insufficiency, so ever since she was just under a year old she’s been getting regular blood transfusions and platelet transfusions.
“And then she was diagnosed with leukaemia. She went through that and then had a stem cell transplant last year. So she’s coming out the end of that now.
“Basically, they saved my daughter’s life. The hospital is an amazing place, and the staff are lovely here. She’s made to feel at home and she doesn’t dread coming to the hospital. She finds it’s her second home.”
“To be asked to switch on the lights really was an honour.”
Staff and visitors loudly joined the countdown, before Naomi pushed the button and the tree was bathed in sparkling lights, adding some brightness and cheer to the shortest days of the year.
Manager Linda Williamson drew the event to a close, and addressing all those who had attended said: “I hope that everyone has a very happy Christmas, and a peaceful, prosperous and joyful new year.”
