Matalan launches annual pyjama campaign in support of Alder Hey Children’s Charity

Two year old twins, Divyansh and Dreeti are fronting the 11^th annual Matalan & Alder Hey Children’s Charity’s ‘pyjama’ campaign which launched last week, after taking part in two innovative research studies. 

Divyansh and Dreeti were born at Liverpool Women’s Hospital at just 33 weeks gestation before being transferred to Alder Hey for specialist treatment due to being born premature. It was there that their parents, Jivika and Himanshu, both of whom work at Alder Hey, were given the opportunity for their twins to take part in two important research studies. 

The HARMONIE study, which spans France, Germany, and the UK, aims to protect young children from RSV, a virus that causes significant health issues in babies and young people. The CAMEO study, set to launch in 2024, explores whether children can swallow mini-tablets mixed in soft food, offering an alternative for those who struggle with liquid medicines.

Mum Jivika said:

“Divyansh and Dreeti are now happy little toddlers who love watching ‘Cocomelon’ on TV, going to the park and making new friends. Soon, the twins will be heading to nursery – exciting times ahead! Taking part in the research studies has been easy and accessible for us as a family. There’s an annual visit, and a few follow up calls. If the children have a cold, a cough or anything similar, I need to report it, which is all done via an app which is really easy to use. The staff have been really helpful, with plenty of follow-ups and lots of care and consideration for the twins.

“The team at Alder Hey have been absolutely incredible and have made the twins feel at ease during each visit. We are very grateful for the care that they received.”

Jivika and Himanshu’s 13-year-old daughter was also treated at Alder Hey for clicky hip and lactose intolerance. Jivika said, “When our 13-year-old was born, it was much harder to navigate her conditions. Seeing the advancements in research and facilities over the last 13 years is incredible. Alder Hey has grown so much, and we feel so fortunate to be part of the hospital’s ongoing journey.”

This year, Jivika, Himanshu, and their children are proud to be featured in the Matalan & Alder Hey campaign, an initiative that raises funds for Alder Hey Children’s Charity. Jivika said, “Alder Hey is such a huge part of our lives, and we were honoured to be part of the campaign. It was a wonderful day, and everyone was so welcoming.”

For the 11th year, Matalan alongside Alder Hey Children’s Charity is releasing an exclusive family pyjama collection, with 100% of profits going to support vital research and care at Alder Hey. The collection includes matching pyjamas for adults and children, plus adorable baby sleepsuits and even a jumper for the family dog. The range features bright, positive designs with uplifting quotes such as “Shine Bright” and “Dream Big”, as well as cheerful stars, rainbows, and Alder Hey’s beloved mascot, Oli the Elephant. The collection is available in selected stores and online, with all profits benefiting Alder Hey’s research programs led by nurses and Allied Health Professionals (AHPs).

Fiona Ashcroft, CEO of Alder Hey Children’s Charity said:

“Eleven magical years as a partner with Matalan has created some unforgettable designs that our, children, families, staff and donors just love! This year is no exception and I know these pyjamas will fly off the shelves again this year. Supporting research is critical to improving heathcare for children across the whole of the UK and Matalan families always get behind our work in astounding numbers!”

To learn more about the campaign and purchase the collection from Matalan here.

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