About us Latest News Max's Story | The Play Team at Leeds Children's Hospital When he was very young, Max was diagnosed with a condition called Alpha 1 antirypsin deficiency, which can cause lung and liver disease. In May 2024 - now 11 years old - Max had a liver transplant at Leeds Children’s Hospital, to help cure him of the condition. During his stay, Max received lots of support from our Play Team, and particularly enjoyed playing video games with its members. But he only had access to the team on weekdays. On Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays, there weren't enough Play Specialists or Play Leaders to support Max on his ward. Max’s mum, Laura, said, “Before his liver transplant, the Play Team did an amazing job of preparing Max for his operation by using teddies to explain his surgery. Read more: Meet our Play Team Then, after his transplant, Max had to isolate on his ward for 21 days because of the risk of infection. This was really tough for Max. He really missed school and his friends, but the Play Team were a real lifeline throughout the week. However, at weekends, when the Play Team wasn’t available, it was really hard for Max, and he felt really lonely. He couldn’t play with members of the team or go in the closed play room. Every child should have access to play, 7 days a week.” Read more: Meet our patients - The Play Team at Leeds Children's Hospital Because of Play... Thanks to your donations, the Play Team are available seven days a week across Leeds Children’s Hospital. Our Play Leaders and Play Specialists do an incredible job, supporting seriously ill children throughout the most difficult time of their young lives. But this can only continue with your support. It costs £106 a day to fund a play team member. Together, we can deliver play to every child in hospital who needs it. Donate Today Manage Cookie Preferences