Easter came early to Gosford Hospital on Wednesday, March 27, when the NSW National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates (the Nashos) made a special delivery of chocolate treats to patients on the Children’s Ward.
Assisted by the Easter bunny, the Nashos brought smiles to the faces of the smallest patients as chocolate eggs and bunnies were hand-delivered, with alternative treats for those with allergies or special diets.
The Nashos have been making Easter chocolate deliveries for 26 years, 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 the Nashos have donated over 6,000 chocolate eggs and special treats to the children of the Central Coast.
Secretary of the NSW National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates Greg Mawson has been involved with the Easter egg deliveries since 1998 .
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Operational Nurse Manager, Paediatrics, Sally Carey said the Nashos visit was 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,” she said.
“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 – an egg-cellent achievement!”