BBCAhead of their Rugby World Cup semi-final against France on Saturday, England’s women players made a special visit to the Bristol Children’s Hospital, talking to patients and handing out crocheted red roses.
The players are based in the city ahead of their match at Ashton Gate on Saturday at 15:30 BST, with the Red Roses just two games away from winning the tournament for a third time.
Marlie Packer, who is originally from Yeovil, and former Hartpury College student Abi Burton said it was important to continue “inspiring future generations”.
“This has definitely brightened up my day. I’m hoping they can win the world cup,” said 12-year-old Martin, who is recovering from two major operations.
“[They were] very nice, really friendly,” he added. “I’ve never actually talked to anyone before, like, famous.”
Packer and Burton will both be hoping to play a part in another England victory on Saturday, but community visits are first on the list.
“I think this one is especially important to us because actually we want to keep inspiring future generations,” Packer said.
“These children have gone through stuff [and] we want to inspire them to get back into sport, whatever sport it is.”
In 2022, Burton spent 25 days in a medically-induced coma due to autoimmune encephalitis, a rare condition where her immune system attacked her brain.
During the three months she spent recovering in hospital, she said she “craved” visits, laughter and conversation.
“I basically had to rebuild my life so I know what it feels like. You do end up feeling quite trapped in once place,” she said.
“The fact we can come in today and give them a different stimulus – I know it’s definitely what they need.
“It will hopefully give them a bit of encouragement moving forward, a new lease of life.”
Martin’s mum Sarah, who was also at his bedside, added: “It’s really nice to sort of break up the day a bit and have someone come in.
“To talk to the girls about the physio and stuff when he’s going through physio too – it’s really nice to have that.”
If England win on Saturday, they will face either defending champions New Zealand or Canada in the final at Twickenham on 27 September.
