Young patients on the Children’s Ward at Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust can now travel to surgery in style thanks to the donation of a brand new mini Tesla car – electric of course.
The Trust’s newest transport service – a gift from the Tesla Owners Group UK – arrived at the hospital on Wednesday (April 17) and was driven onto the Children’s Ward.
Complete with built-in sound system and space for teddy to ride shotgun, staff hope that this up-to-date journey to surgery will make the process a lot less daunting for young patients.
The car is a ride-in toy Model S. The Tesla Owners Group UK raised enough funds to purchase 150 cars for NHS services across the UK – to benefit children who are in need of extra care and opportunities for play.
Tesla’s co-founder, Elon Musk, also made a financial donation to the cause.
Catherine Newman is Associate Director of GWH’s Fundraising for Brighter Futures: “We are so grateful to Tesla Owners Group for this amazing donation. Often, the thought of surgery can be very scary for children, but we are sure that the mini car will act as a great distraction, and will make them feel much calmer.”
“The car is certainly a much more fun mode of transport than the usual hospital beds. It will be great for the patients to be able to use around the ward too.”
Deryn Harvey is coordinator of the Tesla Owners UK Group Coordinator: “Tesla Owners Group UK, together with our partner The Christian Blandford Foundation, are delighted that Great Western Hospital has accepted a donation of a mini-Tesla electric vehicle.”
“We know from the experience of many hospitals that this car is sure to bring joy and alleviate anxiety in young children in hospital. “
“This mini-Tesla is one of 150 we have placed across the country, thanks to our members’ kind donations. The Great Western Hospital was nominated by local Tesla Owners UK Group members in gratitude for the great service provided to their children.”
