Natta attends The Glade Opening Ceremony

Natta’s Jo Whelan and John Murphy were delighted to attend the opening ceremony of The Glade – a new beautiful garden that has been developed for the patients and families of the Oak Centre for Children and Young people at the Royal Marsden in Sutton.

The Glade – Opening Ceremony, hosted by Clinical Director Carly Snowball

The idea to transform this derelict outside space was conceived in 2015. Several years on with huge fundraising efforts achieved, including those donated by the Natta Group from our annual Charity Golf Days, the garden has finally been realised.

Clinical Director, Carly Snowball gave a heartfelt speech and thanked everyone for coming. She commented, “The garden has been specifically designed to provide young patients and their families with a haven away from the hospital environment. This is a celebration for all those involved to see the garden in all its glory.”

Jo Whelan commented, “It is so gratifying to see how the money that we have raised has helped transform this once unused space into a stunning outside space for the patients and their families at the hospital. Natta is proud to have been part of this project and honoured to see our name on the plaque alongside the other contributors.”

From left to right: Jo Whelan and John Murphy

The Glade

A large number of different aspects had to be considered in the design of such a specialist space. Careful planning has enabled two areas for suitable play equipment to be installed for both small and slightly older children. New flooring in a curvy flowing design has been laid, which is welcoming to all ages and gives the area a spacious atmosphere. The garden has appropriate access for all the different anticipated users of the garden. This includes patients in wheelchairs and with drip trolleys.

The Glade at The Royal Marsden in Sutton is a relaxing and safe outside space for patients to use whilst The Oak Centre is their home. Visiting siblings will have space to play and parents will have an area to relax and be away from the ward environment when they need a break. The Oak Centre for Children and Young People is an exceptional place. It leads the way in new treatments and therapies for young people with cancer and is run by a highly skilled and dedicated team.

The patients deserve the very best facilities to accompany the world-class care that The Royal Marsden offers. This garden is a finishing touch to a very special centre for their youngest cancer patients and their families. Natta is delighted to have been part of its story.

The Glade Before and After

We are looking for other ways in which we can continue our commitment to support the Royal Marsden going forward.

Our Annual Golf Day is on June 28th at Sherfield Oaks Golf Club. Proceeds from the day will be donated to another worthy project at the hospital.