Selfless 10-Year-Old Skips Birthday Gifts For Sick Kids

Amanda Delvin (left) and Savannah Cox (right) smiling and holding up fundraising cheque outside charity offices

A selfless 10-year-old has skipped on her birthday gifts for the past three years and raised over £3,600 for our hospital.

Savannah Cox, from Edgbaston, had the generous idea of giving up her birthday presents at the age of seven, after she was overwhelmed by how many gifts she received and thought of others less fortunate. She asked friends and family to donate to our Children’s Hospital instead and enjoyed the challenge so much that she has since made the same pledge every year, raising over £3,600 to support sick kids.

Her parents, Mark and Francesca, are fully behind her, encouraging their friends and colleagues to get involved. This year, they chose to post Savannah’s fundraiser on social media and were overwhelmed by the positive response, raising the most money so far for the cause.

To highlight Savannah’s efforts, our charity staff visited her school for an assembly, where they celebrated her kindness and consideration for others. In recognition of her generosity, she was awarded star of the week by her teachers.

Savannah’s giving spirit has proved unstoppable and she’s keen to do even more, with further charity fundraising events planned for later this year. She hopes by continuing to support our hospital, other people will be encouraged to do the same.

Savannah Cox said: “Giving up my presents isn’t hard. It’s a nice thing to do and I feel good about raising the money. I like helping other people.”

Mark Cox, Savannah’s Dad, said: “We’re so proud of Savannah. It’s amazing how she’s done it all off her own bat and wants to keep raising more for charity. She’s the most kind and empathetic person I know!”

Annie Eytle, Head of Public Fundraising at Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “Savannah is such a kind and caring girl, and her selfless actions are beyond inspirational, especially as there aren’t many children her age who would do the same.

“We cannot thank her enough for all her generosity, which will help transform experiences for our brave patients.”