Play is so important to the healthy development of children that the United Nations consider it a basic right for every child.
That’s why we are setting out to create amazing spaces for our youngest patients to use as part of their recovery and rehabilitation. As part of its annual Christmas Appeal, we are raising funds to build an all abilities outdoor play space to complement the redevelopment of the Clinical Services Campus on the site of the former hospital in Lucan Street. The play space will become a place for therapists and patients in the Victorian Paediatric Rehabilitation Service to use during therapy session and other times when children within the service just wish to play.
Children like 16 month old Chloe and 6 year old Amelia will be some of those to benefit.
Like other children with cerebral palsy, Chloe has multiple appointments every week to encourage movement skills such as sitting, walking, playing, dressing and toileting. As she grows, having direct access to an inclusive play space during therapy will make sessions more engaging and fun.
Fiercely independent Amelia loves playing with and chasing her friends and older brother. Like other Prep aged children, friendships and play are essential to Amelia’s physical, social and emotional well-being. Amelia has attended regular rehabilitation sessions at Bendigo Health the majority of her life and her family are strong advocates for the benefits she has received.
More than 100 children from across the Loddon Mallee region are treated by Bendigo Health’s rehabilitation services at any one time. You can help by making a tax deductible donation or gifting an e-Card. Find out more at www.bendigohealth.org.au/Christmas
