Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates:Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), managed by the Cleveland Clinic, held a special Mother’s Day Wanasa party on 24^th March, with support from Zayed University, to aid children’s recovery through fun and engaging activities.

To mark Mother’s Day, recognition was given to all mothers and grandmothers, who are often the main caregiver and play a pivotal role in the recovery of sick children. Special recognition was given mothers whose children suffer from a long-term condition or disability, on whom they are often dependent.

“While medicine is an important aspect of the healing process, fun and engaging activities offer another kind of therapy that can take children’s mind off their immediate situation, and help to inspire creative learning. Wanasa events are designed to be really engaging for the children and we hope that the activities gave the patients a good dose of fun. From their beaming smiles, it certainly looked as though they were enjoying the entertainment.” said Ben Frank, Chief Executive Officer of Sheikh Khalifa Medical City.

“Celebrating the Mother’s Day at SKMC is an extension of our dedication towards enhancing patient experience. We are celebrating the moms who are taking care of their sick children and express our gratitude of their dedication. We also extend this celebration to embrace the Mother of Arabs H.H. Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubark, she is an exemplary mother of endless achievements and contributions.” Said Salama Alhaj, Deputy Chief Operation Officer of Sheikh Khalifa Medical City.

Volunteers from Zayed University were also on hand at the Mother’s Day Wanasa Party by which provided them with an opportunity to speak to patients and their families to gain a better understanding of the experiences.

SKMC’s Wanasa programme is a series of monthly events designed to boost children’s spirits, where pediatric patients and their families are invited to join in a number of entertaining activities organized by staff in the hospital’s pediatric department.