Rusty the Rhino brings smiles

Their eyes were filled with the suffering that they have had to endure in their short lives, but when the big blue rhino with his big eyes and friendly smile entered the pediatric ward at the Life Wilgeheuwel hospital, those little eyes were suddenly filled with brightness again.

Rusty the Rhino walked the corridors of the hospital on 3 November for a very special day. Rusty the Rhino is a brand-new culinary programme by Medirest. Medirest forms part of the Compass Group which is one of the largest food services and facilities company in the world.
It is their aim to make children’s hospital stays a bit more comfortable and enjoyable. The initiative’s focus is a healthy menu, fun environment and rewarding experience. Medirest is a food and nutrition company that caters for hospitals.

The food served to the children as well as the bowls, place mats and cutlery is designed around the Rusty the Rhino theme. The mascot handed out buckets with treats, colouring in pictures and a certificate for bravery to the young patients. Life Wilgeheuwel staff and executives of Medirest gathered in the hospital for a colourful launch of the initiative and there was even a cake.

Managing director of the Compass Group, Peter Nichols said that he thinks this is such a wonderful initiative. “The psychological side of children’s illnesses is just so important. If we can make them happy and excited, it will contribute to their healing.”
Details: Life Wilgeheuwel Hospital 011 796 6500.