Surrounded by presents, friends, family and cake, the highlight of most children’s year is their birthday.

However, Isabella Lorusso wanted to do something different when she turned nine this year.

Instead of having a party, she decided to donate all her birthday presents to the children staying in the paediatric wards at St George’s Hospital.

Isabella, from Carshalton, visited St George’s play room with her younger brother Alessandro and mum Edi on May 31. She brought a large bag of gifts, with everything from Disney DVDs to books to board games to arts and crafts activities.

When asked why she decided to do it she replied: “Because I don’t need them and these children do.”

Mum Edi, who works at St George’s as thromboprophylaxis clinical nurse specialist, said: “This sums Isabella up, she’s always wanting to help other people.

“It’s been very special to her to have given these gifts to children who spend time in hospital.

“I was so humbled to see her doing something like that as I wouldn’t expect it from someone her age.”

Isabella came third in a swimming gala the day before her birthday so her mum thought she really deserved a party. However, her daughter insisted giving the presents was all she wanted to do.

Although Isabella’s birthday was on 22 April, she had to wait until half term to bring the toys in.

Wandsworth Times:

Some of the presents Isabella donated

Edi said: “Every day she kept asking if we could bring the toys in. We were busy with school and extra-curricular activities, but half term was luckily just around the corner.”

Isabella, who was born at St George’s, said: “I was really looking forward to bringing the toys in to the hospital. I hope that the children enjoy them and they put a smile on their faces.”

Justine Makin, lead health play specialist, said: “It’s such a lovely generous and kind gesture from Isabella. I know that the children and young people will really enjoy them.

“Being in hospital is difficult at any time and these gifts will really help to make a difference and put a smile on our patients’ faces.’’

After finding out what this caring young girl did, her teacher announced it at school and Isabella received a big applause from her classmates.

Another mum approached Edi and said it had inspired her family to do the same.

She said: “With what is happening in the world at the moment, such an act of kindness was the good news we needed.”

Isabella, who plays the clarinet and piano, wants to do something similar this Christmas. She also asked her mum is she could play for the kids at the hospital.