Give a smile – Hospital clowns help little heroes through difficult times
Zurich Children’s Hospital (Kispi Zurich), Switzerland
In the Zurich Children’s Hospital, infants, children and young people who are seriously ill, who had accidents or are chronically ill are hospitalized for a long time or on a recurring basis. They have to endure many treatments and some of them, such as children suffering from leukemia, are in the children’s hospital for years. The families affected are challenged on all levels of their existence and find themselves in an exceptional situation. The child is confronted with separation, fear, pain or boredom, parents with worry, insecurity and tension.
To make life easier for children and their families, hospital clowns come to see the Zürich Children’s Hospital.
Pictures used above © Universitäts – Kinderspital Zürich
The hospital clown DaDa is my best friend! I can fool around with him and laugh again. He helps me to get well again.
With imagination, humor and empathy, clowns accompany each family individually on their difficult path. Especially for chronically ill and traumatized patients who repeatedly have to endure unpleasant interventions, the clowns are a wonderful change. They make you forget everything else and bring lightness to the often difficult everyday life.
There are no public funds or health insurance available for the jobs of hospital clowns. They are fully financed by donations.
What the project does
Project content
– Hospital clowns are on duty daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
– They are present in wards, the ambulance and in emergencies.
– In addition, they are also called spontaneously to ease difficult situations.
– Hospital clowns also provide support with many unpleasant interventions accompanying the operation.
With the presence of the clowns and their constant support, the children can build trust and more self-confidence. The mood and attitude of the little patients has an impact on their recovery process.
Every amount makes a difference!
More clown impressions
In order to protect the privacy of the children and families at the Zurich Children’s Hospital, photos with patients are deliberately avoided.
Pictures used below © Universitäts – Kinderspital Zürich
Zurich Children’s Hospital
Universitäts – Kinderspital Zürich
We are the largest center for pediatrics and pediatric surgery in Switzerland and one of the leading centers worldwide. We treat and care for children and young people, support them in their development and look after them together with their families. Our dedicated employees work together in an interdisciplinary and interprofessional manner, research, use the latest technologies and methods until your child is well.