Walking for Reuben
Last September, Erin’s son Reuben was seriously injured in a traffic accident, requiring extensive care at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow. Now, Erin and her family are walking 23 miles at the Glasgow Kiltwalk to give back and support Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, which played a vital role in Reuben’s recovery and their journey as a family. This is their story.
Reuben’s Hospital Journey
Four months ago, Erin’s little boy, Reuben, was injured in an accident that required urgent and intensive care from multiple teams at the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow.
He was transferred from A&E to Ward 3B, where he spent 11 nights as an inpatient. During his stay, he was cared for by plastic surgeons, paediatric surgeons (who operated on his abdomen), psychiatrists, psychologists and physiotherapists.
Erin is especially grateful for the kindness and support provided by the Major Trauma Team:
“They took so much stress off us, and made Reuben feel relaxed and comfortable during his time at the hospital. They were there for a shoulder to cry on, and it was such a relief knowing we had someone to talk to whenever we needed.”
Wee Reuben thought he may struggle to walk again, because he was lying in a bed for so long and had so many bandages. So, he was extremely happy when, by the end of his hospital stay, Reuben managed to take a few assisted steps. Today, he is back to walking unaided!
Reuben still attends the hospital regularly for appointments with his psychologist, as well as check-ups with the plastic surgery team to monitor his skin grafts and ensure his recovery is progressing well.
The Welcoming Environment of the Children’s Hospital
“I don’t know what I would’ve done without the hospital and charity services. Even though Reuben still has regular appointments at the hospital, he sees it as a positive experience, because it’s bright, welcoming, and there’s so much to do.”
Thanks to charity funding, the hospital’s Main Atrium is filled with colourful decorations and interactive displays. During the festive period, patients can enjoy a large Christmas tree, festive decorations, and even a chance to meet Santa.
“Reuben also loved visiting the playroom on Ward 3A and having fun there.”
Erin, Reuben's Mum
During Reuben’s check-ups with the burns and physiotherapy teams, our play specialists were on hand to help him feel at ease and better understand what to expect during his appointments.
“With his bandage changing and pressure garment appointments, the play specialists were actually in the room with us. That was amazing - it really helped him feel less anxious about the procedure and made such a huge difference.”
Giving Back with the Glasgow Kiltwalk
This April, Erin and her family will be taking on the 23-mile Mighty Stride at the Glasgow Kiltwalk to support Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity and give back for the care and support they’ve received since Reuben’s hospital journey began.
“When Reuben was discharged, it was bittersweet. We were happy, of course, but it felt like leaving our wee room behind!”
Erin, Reuben's Mum
“Honestly, I have no words for how thankful we are for everyone involved in Reuben’s care. It wasn’t just about helping Reuben – it was about supporting us as a family too. I’m so excited to be raising funds for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity at this year’s Kiltwalk.”
Be a Kiltwalk Hero
Be a fundraising hero for patients like Reuben and join Team Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity at the Glasgow Kiltwalk. Remember, all of our walkers can request a special 50% off discount code.
Saturday 26 April
Due to Glasgow selling out in recent years, the Kiltwalk have added an extra 14 mile Big Stroll from Clydebank to Balloch on Saturday 26 April to meet demand.
Sunday 27 April
Glasgow Kiltwalk with all 3 distances:
- Mighty Stride (23 miles)
- Big Stroll (14 miles)
- Wee Wander (3 miles)