CEO COVID Update: Child Life

COVID-19

Dear Foundation friend,

As an important partner in our work to ensure children receive the best health care imaginable, words cannot fully express how grateful I am for you. Despite having every part of your daily life changed, you continue to be by our side to help safeguard the health of children across our province.

In my last update to you, Dr. Jana Davidson, chief medical officer, shared how health care heroes at BC Children’s Hospital have adapted to the constant changes brought on by COVID-19. Today, I want to share some of the ways kids at the hospital are coping, while inspiring those around them.

A hospital stay can be difficult for kids physically, emotionally and socially—and even more so now, when visitors are limited and family spaces and playrooms have closed. Recently, we spoke with Nicki Elischer, a child life specialist who works with patients, from babies to teens, to help them cope and express their emotions. From enabling a child to mentally prepare for a procedure to engaging kids in activities that promote play and provide a welcome sense of normalcy, the work of child life specialists has never been more important.

Click here to watch Nicki’s message.

Nicki’s message is a powerful reminder that kids need specialized care that prioritizes their unique needs. I echo Nicki in saying that the work of her team would not be possible without the incredible support of donors like you.

Generous donations, including those to the Rapid Response Fund, are enabling essential work across the hospital, while protecting the health and safety of children there—a key priority always on our minds, including now as we hear more in recent news about the effects of COVID-19 on children.

Nicki, as well as many other health care heroes at BC Children’s Hospital, will be featured during this year’s Miracle Weekend, airing on Global BC on May 30 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. While this broadcast will look a bit different from that of previous years, it will still be filled with stories of courage and hope, like Nicki’s.

Once again, I want to express my heartfelt thanks for your passion and generosity, which truly means everything to the kids, families and health care providers at BC Children’s Hospital. Thank you for your continued support.

I hope you and your families continue to stay safe and healthy.

With immense gratitude,

Teri Nicholas

P.S. Recently, in our work to help make the hospital experience brighter for children, our team was so delighted to have the chance to host a Zoom chat with Michael Bublé. Here’s a clip from that remarkable day.