A SELFLESS Bradford man celebrated Eid over the weekend by donating gifts to poorly children at a local hospital.

Fundraiser Nazim Ali marked Eid Ul-Adha by carrying out the 10th annual Creating Smiles Gifts Initiative, where he gave presents to those on the children’s ward at Airedale General Hospital.

Nazim – who himself spent time in hospital as a child, after a struggle with tuberculosis – gave 30 cuddly toys and play sets, amongst other gifts, to the children.

“It was a gesture of kindness to remind the children that people do care about them,” he said.

“Thousands of pounds’ worth of gifts have been distributed from my now 32 visits to children’s wards at Bradford Royal Infirmary and Airedale.

“The smiles of these children have enriched and humbled me.  

“As a child, I spent a significant period in hospital after having TB, and I can empathise with what the children are going through.

“The essence of Eid Ul-Adha has the universal concept of showing compassion to all, particularly those in need.

“It is these values that bring people together, regardless of belief. This is a time where we should reflect and support the most vulnerable.

“We should always help others, irrespective of faith or ethnicity.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: L-R: Nazim Ali, Ruth Matthews (Play Specialist, Airedale NHS Foundation Trust) and Mohammed Azeem (Friend of Airedale Hospital)L-R: Nazim Ali, Ruth Matthews (Play Specialist, Airedale NHS Foundation Trust) and Mohammed Azeem (Friend of Airedale Hospital)

Nazim was supported by SaveCo Cash & Carry, which has sponsored the Creating Smiles Gifts Initiative on several occasions.

“I express my gratitude to managing directors Shiraz and Fairaz Ahmed for their kind support,” he said.

“Citywide Investors also donated brand new toys, for which I am grateful.”

“My dear friend Mohammed Azeem also accompanied me to Airedale Hospital, and helped me buy the gifts.

“He spent 61 days in hospital – of which 41 were in a coma – as he successfully battled Covid-19 and recovered.

“Prior to this, he successfully battled cancer.”

Shiraz Ahmed, SaveCo managing director, said: "We are humbled to support this fabulous initiative by Nazim, who does so much to help others.

“Knowing so many children will be joyous upon receiving their presents fills us with happiness.

“This initiative and others, like supporting foodbanks and soup kitchens, is part of our responsibility as a Bradford business to give back – something Fairaz and I passionately believe in.”

Mohammed Azeem added: "It was an honour to support my friend Nazim, who never stops helping others, and to support the excellent work of the NHS staff, which I have experienced first-hand."