Medical Clowns Project
The Need
In the wake of heightened tensions since October 7th and the escalation of attacks, the importance of mental and emotional care in healthcare has become increasingly evident. The Edmond and Lily Safra Children’s Hospital, Israel’s largest and leading pediatric center, is proactive in addressing the unique emotional needs of its young patients. The Medical Clowns Program, initiated before the recent conflicts, has now become an indispensable element of the hospital’s holistic care approach. This program goes beyond traditional medical treatments, emphasizing the hospital’s commitment to creating a nurturing, pain-free environment. These medical clowns aim to transform moments of fear, sadness and anxiety into moments of allowing them to forget for just a few moments of the difficult reality they are confronted with.
The Project
This project, featuring 11 medical clowns who dedicated 7.5 hours weekly to bring joy and solace to children facing physical and psychological challenges, is a lot more than entertainment. These medical clowns offer vital emotional support and distraction from pain, forming a unique bond with young patients. Specially trained to meet individual needs, they use humor, play, and creativity to ease fears and anxieties, significantly aiding the healing process. This initiative underscores the importance of emotional well-being in recovery, embodying Sheba’s commitment to holistic patient care and the healing power of laughter and joy.
but also emotional health.
