Teen who received a surprise visit from Worcester Wolves basketball star goes home
A teenage basketball fan, who has bravely battled back after receiving severe burns, enjoyed a surprise visit from Worcester Wolves basketball star, Elvisi Dusha, just before his discharge home from Birmingham Children’s Hospital as he continues his recovery.
Northfield resident, Lloyd Saunders, who has previously played basketball for his school, Turves Green Boys School, is now back with his family after spending two months on the hospital’s specialist Burns Centre, which offers expert care to more than 400 young people each year.
The 13-year-old received severe burns following an accident at home involving hot oil and has undergone multiple skin grafts and extensive rehabilitation.
During his time at the hospital Lloyd developed a fantastic relationship with his care team including Senior Physiotherapist, Ben Sturrock. Ben contacted Worcester Wolves after learning about Lloyd’s love of the sport and how he’d planned to see one of their games but had been unable to do so.
Ben said:
“I’d like to say a massive thank you to Elvisi and the team for making this visit happen. It was amazing to see Lloyd’s reaction. You could see what a boost it was and I’m sure that it’s an experience that will stay with him and his family for a really long time.
“Elvisi made Lloyd feel comfortable and was so positive which gave him a lot of optimism.”
Having previously been unable to play basketball for a period of time due to suffering a burn to his wrist, Elvisi was keen to meet the teen and give him some words of encouragement.
The Point Guard, who plays for the Albania national team and is looking forward to taking to the court later this month with his teammates at the Arena Birmingham for the finals of the British Basketball League, said:
“As a professional basketball player growing up in Britain where basketball isn’t a mainstream sport, I love having the opportunities to go out and meet youngsters like Lloyd with a passion for the game.
“You could clearly see that Lloyd was being well looked after at Birmingham Children’s Hospital and it was great that his physio, Ben, went the extra mile to get in contact with the club. I am glad that Lloyd is now at home and I wish him well on his recovery.”
The 23-year-old was armed with Worcester Wolves merchandise, including some exclusive signed trainers, and even invited Lloyd and his family to come along to a future game. Elvisi’s teammate, George Beamon, was unable to attend the visited but gifted the youngster a signed Oklahoma City Blue jersey, from his days playing in the NBA G League.
Experts at Birmingham Children’s Hospital advise children and families to be ‘burn aware’ and remember the simple 3Cs – Cool, Call and Cover – should a burns injury occur. For more information please visit, https://www.cbtrust.org.uk/burn-prevention/first-aid/.