For International Day of Friendship (30 July), we spoke to Jen, Mum to Bay and Uday, Dad to Aditi about how their daughters met in hospital and how Spread a Smile has helped to provide space for their friendship to flourish.
“Bay and Aditi met at Great Ormond Street Hospital when Bay was four years old and Aditi was six.” Jen shared. “Bay was already on dialysis, and Aditi had just started dialysis and their shared outlook of fun, incredible resilience and positivity gave them an instant connection and a special bond formed.
“They’ve both had their fair share of hospital stays and live on opposite sides of London so most meet ups and play dates happened in hospital. These often became more comfort and support dates during their treatment. Bay would go and sing at Aditi’s door and Aditi would come to the chemo ward to join Bays singing concerts.
“During this time, Spread a Smile did what it does best and not only recognised this growing connection, but went out of their way to ensure the girls were invited to the same events at the same time – something that would’ve been difficult for us as parents to achieve on our own.
“Spread a Smile gives us a space to come together – a carefree relaxed and inclusive environment that enables Bay and Aditi to feel confident and empowered to just be themselves and have fun together. And that’s a wonderful
thing and something we will forever be grateful for.”
Every year, Spread a Smile supports hundreds of seriously ill children like Bay and Aditi, providing opportunities to find fun and connection – with our entertainers and each other. Uday, Aditi’s Dad added “Aditi and Bay’s bond is more than that of two kids sharing a common journey. They see themselves as twins and can’t wait to catch up and chat – about taking their meds, their favourite foods, toys or Disney Princesses. They would look out for each other in hospital, brightening each other’s days, checking in on video calls and sharing little gifts.
“And then at every Spread a Smile party they can meet and catch up outside of hospital, having the best of times immersed together in bubbles, sing songs and activities. They get lost in their own little world.
“Spread a Smile has helped unite them at so many special events from afternoon teas, to art days and parties. Every time we see the sparkle in Aditi’s eyes as she looks forward to the reunions and fun moments with Bay.
“During hospital times and beyond, Aditi and Bay have remained together thanks to Spread a Smile. They have found a friendship filled with so much joy and happiness. Our families have connected in a very special way – all thanks to Spread a Smile for bringing us together from East and West London to share a special bond filled with love, care and happiness.”
Spread a Smile relies completely on the generosity of donors, partners and sponsors to continue to provide it’s vital services. To find out how you or your company can help support our entertainer visits to children in hospital, family events and art initiatives, please click here.