About the Koala Association

The Koala Association is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to improving the lives of children hospitalized at the Pediatrics ⁢department of the Pau Hospital Center (Centre Hospitalier de Pau, CHP) in France. Founded on the principle of providing joy and normalcy, Koala maintains a daily presence with young patients, supported by strategic partnerships, notably with the Section Paloise Béarn Pyrénées rugby club.

the association’s core mission is to alleviate the fears and anxieties associated with hospitalization by offering⁣ children opportunities for play, expression, and connection with the outside world.

A Multifaceted Approach to Healing Through Play

Koala employs a variety ⁣of intervention methods centered around facilitating interaction ⁤and emotional well-being. Activities include listening sessions,creative arts,games,storytelling,music,and manual crafts like painting. These activities are conducted⁢ in both small and large groups, and are also incorporated into special events such as Christmas and Carnival celebrations.

According to Corinne Teixeira, President of the Koala Association as 2014, the beliefs is simple: “continue to ⁣play, communicate and live yoru childhood even during illness.⁤ As with an adult, a child’s recovery is 50% due to his morale.” ⁤ The association focuses on creating a positive habitat, allowing children to express themselves and, importantly, providing a supportive ⁣ear for⁢ both children and ⁢their parents, all while adhering to strict medical confidentiality.

Inspired by ⁣Personal Experience

Corinne Teixeira’s commitment to⁤ the koala Association stems ‍from a deeply⁣ personal experience. Prior to her involvement, she worked ‍as a saleswoman in a bakery and pastry shop. Her mother’s hospitalization in Bordeaux hospital exposed her ⁢to the emotional distress of young patients.

Teixeira recalls a notably poignant memory: “My mother was⁢ hospitalized in Bordeaux hospital. The⁤ service ⁣welcomed adults, but also children. Across the street ⁤from his room was a ⁤six-year-old girl on dialysis. The children were not allowed to have visitors ⁤and‍ when she saw ⁢the nurses coming to take her for treatment, she would start screaming. I can still hear his screams, decades later.” This experience fueled her desire to create a more supportive and joyful environment for hospitalized children.

Dedicated Volunteers and Consistent Support

Currently, the Koala ⁣Association relies ⁤on the dedication of 31 regular volunteers who provide consistent support to children at the Pau hospital site. Their commitment ensures activities are offered six days a week,⁢ throughout the year. This consistent presence is ‍crucial for ‍building trust and providing ongoing emotional⁤ support to young patients navigating the ‍challenges of hospitalization.