Simon Cowell on why he supports GOSH Charity

“I first visited Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) years ago. I remember being blown away by how brave the kids were, even in the worst circumstances. I think it’s because the hospital does everything it possibly can, not just to cure them or help them through their illness, but to also lift their spirits.

“GOSH isn’t a depressing place. The staff and charity create such an incredible environment. And every single person, from the nurses and doctors to the admin staff, is so committed. You can feel the absolute love they have for the patients.

“There’s something about this hospital that’s special. It’s a very unique place. People really care and they’re making a difference.”

“Becoming a father [to Eric, now aged 12] changed everything for me. From the first time I saw Eric’s scan, I was obsessed – and I still am. He’s the love of my life. He’s given me a purpose. I don’t think I had that before.

"It also made me see everything from a parent’s point of view. It made me think, ‘How would I cope with my child being sick? And what would I do if this hospital didn’t exist?’

“I remember visiting one of the cancer wards at GOSH and seeing kids who had to be in isolation because they were so unwell. The situation is awful not only for the child but the family too, which means the support the charity offers is so important.”

“Often people know GOSH as a place that treats kids, but I don’t think everyone knows that there's a huge research side to it as well. There are incredible people working on breakthroughs that will help treat really serious illnesses.

“On one visit, I met a researcher who’s working on something potentially groundbreaking for kids with cancer. He was explaining the science to me and I said to him, ‘I haven’t got a clue what you’re talking about, other than I really believe this is going to make a difference.’ He’s one of the kindest human beings I’ve met, and his research could potentially save a lot of lives.

"It gave me a sense of hope. I realised I wanted to be a significant part of the charity’s future; I'm in this for the long term. It’s not just about writing a cheque – although it is that as well – but it’s about coming up with new initiatives and new ways to support.”

“Working with GOSH Charity and Omaze on the Cornwall House Draw to raise money for the new Children’s Cancer Centre was brilliant. It was fantastic meeting 14-year-old Skye, who was treated at GOSH after being diagnosed with leukaemia in 2021. She’s in remission now, which is amazing.

“We’ve also got something coming up on Britain’s Got Talent which is really exciting. On 2 May, the GOSH choir [made up of hospital staff and volunteers] will be on the show singing with one of the previous winners, Sydnie Christmas. ITV and my production partners have been amazing in helping us do it, and the aim is to help people at home learn more about the charity.

“Without giving too much away, we’re also working on an even bigger event to support the charity – so watch this space.”

“It’s your biggest fear as a parent that your child is going to get ill. Having seen more of what the charity does, I’d say that even if it’s a pound, please contribute something towards it. Times are tough right now, and I understand that, but you have no idea how important money, support and awareness are.

“You pray your child never has to be there, but if your child is ill, knowing GOSH exists is like a beacon of light.”

Find out more about the Children’s Cancer Centre and donate to help build it.