It's been a fun packed week at Addenbrooke's with a host of special visitors and activities for children to enjoy while being treated in hospital.
Hitting a funny bone in the Paediatric Emergency Department yesterday was one of the Giggle Doctors – Dr Gee Hee – whose map-cap antics soon brought a smile to the faces of poorly patients.
Dr Gee Hee, resplendent in her colourful doctor’s coat and donut head gear, got the children laughing with a combination of play, singing, balloons, and her sensational sense of silliness.
Meanwhile members of Cambridge United were a winning combination for young fans on wards including D2 where 11-year-old Jamie Mills even got a chance for a kick-around in the adjoining garden.
Other highlights from the week included visits from the police, fire service, the army, chefs, resident dance artist Filipa Pereira-Stubbs and Pets as Therapy (PAT) dogs. They were enjoyed as much by parents as children.
The family fun was organised by emergency department healthcare specialist, Sophie Barber, who works with children to ensure their stay does not impact on their development. The week comes as the Trust forges ahead with plans to build a dedicated children’s hospital on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, which will be the first in the region.
Sophie, who is part of a resident team of play specialists, said:
Play is a safe space for a child and the activities we do can help identify why a child might be withdrawing. We can make a big difference for patients and try to make being in hospital a positive experience.
Sophie Barber
Read more about Sophie and her work here: My CUH Story - Sophie Barber
Visit our Instagram account to see a round-up of the week (opens in a new tab)!
Read more about plans for the Cambridge Children's Hospital here: https://www.cambridgechildrens.org.uk/our-vision/a-whole-new-way/