Children joined their families for a day of crafts, face-painting and animal encounters during a special fun day organised by the long-term ventilation team at East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The event took place at The Nook and was also open to those being supported at the charity’s other two bases – Milton, near Cambridge, and The Treehouse, in Ipswich.
Fifteen people representing four families attended, and they had the chance to take part in a variety of activities, including stone-painting, wreath-making and birdbox decorating.
They also enjoyed face-painting provided by volunteers from Center Parcs, as well as the opportunity to meet and cuddle animals brought along by Wycomb Pastures Mobile Petting Farm.
It was the first time EACH had organised a family fun day specifically for children and young people receiving care from the long-term ventilation team, who require intensive support with their breathing via a machine and/or a tracheostomy tube.
“It was wonderful to see children and families having fun, socialising and connecting with others who share similar experiences and needs,” said Long-Term Ventilation Nurse Bethany Turner.
“Seeing meaningful conversations develop between families, children and staff was particularly special.
“The aim of the day was to bring families from across our sites together, and seeing those connections form made the event truly worthwhile.
“The feedback from families who attended was overwhelmingly positive, with many saying they enjoyed the day and would like to see more events like this in the future.”
The fun day took place on Tuesday, 11th August.
Pictures: Karen Self/EACH
