STRICTLY dancer Luba Mushtuk paid a fab-u-lous visit to Acorns Children’s Hospice giving youngsters and families the cha-cha-chance to dance.
The professional dancer stopped off at Acorns in Birmingham to tour the hospice and learn about the care it offers to sick children and their families.
The Strictly Come Dancing star she was inspired to visit after dancing in the Strictly Christmas Special with EastEnders star Nicholas Bailey, who is an ambassador for the charity.
She added: “The moment I stepped inside, it was just full of beautiful and colourful things.
“I saw how incredible the nurses are who work with the children and families. You can feel the love, the joy and how much heart everyone puts into what they do.
“Touring the hospice was very emotional, but at the same time everyone is working to create wonderful memories, and it was so moving, not only in a sad way but in a way where it’s so humbling and beautiful, and so human.”
The dancer got to look behind the scenes at the vital medical care that the hospice provides, its range of services for symptom management, rehabilitative respite, and emergency and end-of-life care.
She later held a musical dancing session with children, siblings and parents, who also enjoyed a host of fun afternoon activities.
Luba said: “Dance is for everyone regardless of disability. I create choreography for people who dance with their arms, their feet, or whatever connects them to the music.
“You can express yourself in any way you can, and I think it’s beautiful.”
Anna DeRosa, philanthropy manager at Acorns, said: “We were absolutely thrilled that Luba took the time to come into Acorns and share her incredible energy with children and families.
“Her visit not only created magical memories, be she helped shine a glittering light on the vital work our care teams do every day.”
In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 800 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,100 families, including those who are bereaved.
This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.
Acorns needs around £40,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with more than three-quarters of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community and income from its charity shops.
