27 March 2009
She inspected the facility and then met with its patients and their parents. Mrs Christofias, also met with physicians who specialize in treatment of leukaemia and other haematological diseases.
The First Lady was welcomed by  Maria Nicolaou Chairman of the Leukaemia Society  and Dr Panos Kottarides, Haematologist at the Royal Free.
The First Lady’s visit to the hospital was coordinated by the Leukaemia Society (UK), a charity that supports patients during their stay at the hospital. Androulla Stylianou, spokesperson for the Leukaemia Society said “a considerable amount of the funds the charity raises go towards helping leukaemia patients and their families cope with the disease. A diagnosis of leukaemia is an overwhelming blow which sends families reeling. It marks the beginning of a long and complicated journey, filled with trips to and from hospital, unpleasant and frightening medical procedures, worry, pain and distress. Mrs Christofia’s visit and support of the charity will help raise awareness about issues affecting leukaemia patients, especially patients that come from Cyprus for treatment”.
The Hospital Visit was followed by a Fundraising T party at the Cypriot Community Centre, were speeches on Leukaemia, its diagnosos and treatment, were made by Dr Panos Kottarides, Dr Petros Karayiannis, Dr Chara Kyriacou and Dr Pantelis Theocharous. Mrs Christofia gave a moving speech on the origins and work of the Leukaemia Society and her reasons for offering her support. The First Lady and other guests present were entertained by the lovely singing of Antigoni Buxton and Anastasia Liberos, winner and finalist of the charity’s British Born Cypriot Idol Talent Show 2008. Almost 200 people attended the event which raised in excess £7,000.
In her speech Maria Nicolaou, Chairman of the Leukaemia Society, thanked the First Lady for her support and the following people who contributed to the success of this event. The speakers, friends and Patrons of the charity, Georgina Pastou, Evoulla Neofitou, The Cypriot Womens League, the management of the Cypriot Centre, Aroma Patisserie and everyone that made donations and sponsorships towards the event. Many thanks also to Doros Partasides and Antony Alexandrou.