Photo: Alex King | Unsplash
A new program at Perth Children's Hospital teaches kids with chronic health conditions to surf to boost their physical and mental health. After a pilot for children with cystic fibrosis had positive outcomes for patients, the now permanent program is available to children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes, cystic fibrosis, burn injuries, arthritis, and post-sarcoma injuries. The patients' families also get involved, joining them on the beach during sessions, with some parents even learning to surf themselves. As a result, the program helps families recover together. According to PCH senior clinical psychologist Joanna White, who started the program, "There's a lot of emerging evidence about how the ocean … can actually make you feel good and give you a sense of wellbeing."
|
|
More:
