According to Dr Sharon McLean-Salmon, Consultant Paediatrician and Haematologist/Oncologist, at the Bustamante Hospital for Children (BHC), paediatric patients dealing with critical illnesses benefit from incorporating play therapy and interpersonal engagement into their treatment regimen. These complementary approaches are instrumental in ameliorating the impact of their medical condition. She underscored this essential aspect during the Flow Foundation’s annual Paediatric Cancer Fund cheque presentation and children’s treat recently.

“It’s not just about medication for children going through cancer treatment. The medication is absolutely important but there are other aspects required to help them deal with the emotional impact of their condition,” Dr. McLean-Salmon shared. “Things like play therapy, art therapy, music therapy and feel-good days help with those psychological issues they have to live with. So, if it’s even just one day per month, or one day per year, that day makes a big difference in how they see themselves and see their situation.”

Since 2015, the Flow Foundation has been committing $1 million annually to the BHC Paediatric Cancer Fund as well as hosting a fun day for the children. Over the years, more than 60 children have benefitted from the fund, which is administered by the hospital based on priority needs. In keeping with tradition, this year’s event coincided with the observance of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September.

Led by Flow staff volunteers, the children enjoyed engaging reading sessions with lively interaction featuring the beloved character, ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’. The children also enjoyed games, lunch and a photo booth capturing a personalised image for each child. A collection of books was also donated to each child and the Paediatric Ward’s learning centre.

Kayon Mitchell, Director of Communications at Flow and Executive Director of the Flow Foundation, expressed deep gratitude for their partnership with the BHC.

“This initiative holds a special place in the heart of the Flow Foundation,” Mitchell stated. “We understand the immense challenges faced by these children and their families, and we are committed to bringing moments of joy to them with sensitivity and care. We recognize the significance of our support and the positive impact it has on these families, and we are proud to play a small role in the quality of care they receive at the Bustamante Children’s Hospital.”

In addition to the annual injection of funds and the fun day, the Flow Foundation has over the years, donated equipment, powered the Learning Centre, the Cancer Ward and all waiting areas as well as installed Cable TV on all residential wards and at the staff Day Care Centre.