Ever wondered what it was like to have a Christmas Day birthday? Thanks to our HRI Acute Floor Ward Clerk, Diane Hadden, you can find out!
Diane is just one of 13 CHFT colleagues set to celebrate their big day on the 25th December, so we thought we would ask her a few questions to find out more.
What was the best present you've ever received and was it for your birthday, Christmas or combined?
"When I was younger my parents always made sure I had two presents - one for my birthday and one for Christmas. I have made sure that everyone else follows this rule!
"I keep trying to have a 'six-month' birthday in June but no-one else is up for this. I can't see what the problem is.... presents in June and December sound absolutely fine to me!
"If anyone mentions having a combined present I return the comment with...' I'll get you a combined July (or whatever month) present and Christmas present then and give it you in December '. They soon change their mind.
"For a milestone birthday, me, my husband and two children and a couple of friends went to New York for Christmas.... it was amazing and probably the best present I've had."
Which do you open first - birthday presents or Christmas presents?
"I open my birthday presents first, I take my time and by the time I've done this everyone else has nearly finished their Christmas presents and I still have mine to open."
What's the biggest perk or struggle of having a birthday on Christmas?
"I don't particularly like my birthday on Christmas Day as I only get one day to open presents and I cook Christmas dinner for the family so I don't really get much relaxing done, hence a June birthday would be lovely.
"I absolutely love seeing my family on this day as well. Even if they have dinner elsewhere, they always have to come and visit due to it being my birthday."
Will you be working on your birthday and if so will how will you celebrate?
"I won't be working on my birthday as I have been given the go ahead to take annual leave, which I am grateful for."
Thank you to Diane for sharing her experience!
Share your Christmas plans with communications
With less than four weeks until Christmas, the Communications Team want to hear from wards, teams and departments about their plans for the festive period , so we can spread a little Christmas cheer.
Whether it’s festive fundraising, seasonal sing-a-longs, patient parties, Elf on the Shelf or if colleagues have any interesting Christmas stories to share, email communications@cht.nhs.uk and we’ll be in touch.