Patient and Family-Centred Care

Families often face a steep learning curve in understanding their child’s diagnosis and what lies ahead. They also face the challenge of meeting their child’s needs while balancing the practical realities of home and work. Community donations support the Family and Community Resource Centre, which provides immediate guidance with essential needs, connection to credible health and community resources, introduction to families with a similar experience and recreational toys and technology to help manage long hospital stays.

Philanthropy supports Emily’s Backyard – a supervised, child-minding play area that engages patients and siblings in a safe and caring environment. This enables parents to devote their full attention to appointments with their child’s medical team.

Because of donors like you, the Alberta Children’s Hospital is also able to offer support to families through the Special Children’s Fund, which provides financial relief for things like food, gas, parking and accommodation.

Video Remote Interpretation services, also supported by donations, assist the culturally diverse populations cared for by experts at the Alberta Children’s Hospital

Of course, the programming most appreciated by children is Therapeutic Play, which includes art therapy, music therapy and horticultural therapy. These programs help kids cope with their experiences and express themselves in ways words cannot. They also allow them to enjoy interactive and hands-on activities that build self-esteem and creativity. A therapeutic clown and pet therapy are also family favourites. These resources can provide social stimulation, distraction from difficult treatments or procedures, entertainment during lengthy hospital stays, and engaging opportunities for physical, mental, emotional and spiritual healing.