Welsh Rugby Hero Brings Glad Tidings for Children's Hospital

Welsh rugby hero Jonathan Davies revealed, at a glittering Christmas event, that his joint campaign with The Noah’s Ark Appeal has raised a magnificent £410,000 for vital projects at the Children’s Hospital for Wales.

Speaking at a testimonial dinner held in tribute to his rugby career, Jonathan explained how part of the money raised by his recent sporting efforts would go towards a Teenage Cancer Trust Unit at the Children’s Hospital for Wales.

“As a father of four, I know that it is every parent’s worst nightmare when your child is taken ill.  I am a proud Welshman and a long time supporter of the Noah’s Ark Appeal, so I’m thrilled to be able to help such a worthy cause,” said the 32 times capped rugby star.

Jonathan, who spearheaded the Noah’s Ark Appeal’s ‘Get Fit, Get Healthy, Get Giving’ campaign, tackled the Great North Run earlier this year. His marathon effort inspired many people across Wales to organise their own sporting events to raise money for the campaign. 

Rugby legends and sports fans heard how the money raised will provide specialist care for teenagers in an environment that has been designed with their specific needs in mind.  The unit will be the first of its kind in Wales and is expected to make a significant difference to the lives of many Welsh teenagers.

BBC sports presenter John Inverdale hosted the evening, inviting guests to put Jonathan and other rugby superstars including Will Greenwood, Keith Wood, Ieuan Evans and Zinzan Brooke under the spotlight.  Jonathan tackled questions about his prestigious rugby career, his role as BBC pundit and his recent heroics as charity champion for the Noah’s Ark Appeal.

“It was a huge challenge to run the 13-mile course, but all the hard work was worth it to raise such a wonderful amount for the Children’s Hospital.  It’s very humbling to think how generously the people of Wales have supported me,” said Jonathan.  He added: “I would like to thank them all for their kind support and messages of encouragement.”

“Jonathan’s help has been a terrific boost to our fundraising and we are extremely grateful for his support,” said Roz Robinson, Community Relations Manager at the Noah’s Ark Appeal.

Rugby charity The Wooden Spoon Society pledged £250,000 in sponsorship of Jonathan’s efforts in the Great North Run; a donation which has been earmarked to fund a very special children’s garden in the final phase of the Children’s Hospital.