CHEER FOR THE SICK

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 237, 27 December 1927, Page 11

CHEER FOR THE SICK

CHRISTMAS IN HOSPITAL BOARD MEMBERS CALL The spirit of Christmas was well in evidence at the different institutions controlled by the Auckland Hospital Board during the hoi idays. Mr. W. Wallace, the board’s chairman, carried out his customary duty of visiting the wards. Other 'members of the party were: Messrs. G. Knight, W. K. Howitt, M. J. Savage, M.P., J. A. Lee, M.P., and Mrs. Kidd. Dr. C. E. Maguire, the medical superintendent, escorted the party over the general hospital. Every ward was decorated and every patient had a present. Novelties and mascots in abundance bore ample testimony to the work of the matron, nurses, staff and the auxiliary. A special feature of this year’s festivities were the decorations. Flowers and greenery were massed with charming effect, and considerably brightened the wards. The board members also visited the Princess Mary block, and"" the T.B. shelters in the Domain. “Good King Wencelas” merrily ringing from a gramophone greeted the visitors when they called at the Auckland Infirmary. The old people of the Costley Home were particularly glad to welcome their visitors, and to express gratification for the Christmas gifts prepared for them. Miss Carroll, who has spent 44 years in the institution, greeted Mr. Wallace and his party. Both the matron, Miss Rudd, and the medical superintendent, Dr. A. D. McKelvey, made references to the abundance of gifts this year, and declared their keen appreciation in particular of the efforts of the Salvation Army and the Dickens Fellowship, as well as many other friends of the institution. The party arrived at the Alexandra Home just as the inmates had concluded their Christmas dinner. Here again they were keenly impressed with the variety of the decorations.