The annual event is designed to show support to patients, families, and the paediatric team
The Little Heroes ‘love train’ as part of the Valentine’s Day event
The halls of the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children were filled with appreciation, treats, and gratitude this Valentine’s Day as a “love train” made its way through the wards.
It was part of the annual ‘Hearts Across the Hospital’ event hosted by charity Little Heroes on February 13. Designed to show patients, families, and the paediatric team the immense support of the local community, the event delivered joy and much-needed recharge moments to those on the front line.
A “love train” made its way through the paediatric wards, bringing smiles to patients and staff alike, as the team handed out toys, teddies, and 500 “prescriptions of appreciation” – special gift bags filled with treats to mark the day.
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The hospital was buzzing with activity, including a recharge station pop-up hosted by Neighbourhood Cafe, offering a dedicated space for staff and parents to take a breather with a coffee or tea.
To encourage everyone to share the love, an appreciation station was set up, inviting everyone in the hospital to write personal notes of thanks and encouragement to one another.
Attendees were treated to a mini pancake station from The Waffle Bar and a custom cake bar provided by Bellatorta NI, while singer Karen Maisie Mullan provided a beautiful acoustic backdrop to the day’s celebrations.
Wellness and relaxation were also a priority, with Yumi Ash from Nagomi Wellness providing hand massages and Gerard from Balanced Living offering Reiki sessions, both of whom generously donated their time to support the well-being of parents and staff.
Aoife Hunter, head of marketing and communications for Little Heroes, said: “We wanted to show the paediatric team, the parents, and the families exactly how much the community stands behind them.
“From the ‘Love Train’ on the wards to the singers and the pancake bar, the energy was incredible. We are so grateful to our partners—from those providing the logistics like Agnew Leasing to those providing the treats like Tayto and Musgrave—for helping us show this appreciation in such a unique and meaningful way.”
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