Scout Wallen
Today marks 15 years since the Clown Doctors commenced their role of music, magic and laughter for patients and staff at the Lismore Base Hospital.
Provided by the Humour Foundation, Clown Doctors are professional performers who are trained to work in sensitive hospital environments to help alleviate stress or anxiety for patients on a weekly basis.
Cristy Welsh, the Humour Foundation’s local program coordinator for Queensland and Lismore, said that the foundation is very proud to be celebrating their 15th anniversary with the Lismore Base Hospital.
‘Our Clown Doctors are highly trained, professional performers who spread fun, laughter and little magic throughout the hospital, to help uplift sick patients,’ said Ms Welsh.
Their performances include magic, music, puppetry, and slapstick comedy to help make the atmosphere happier and less intimidating for all patients, not just children.
Executive officer of the Northern Rivers Community Foundation, Emily Berry, said that their foundation has provided funding to the Humour Foundation since 2016 for this program.
‘The Clown Doctors program is successful because it is unique and innovative in what it offers the community,’ said Ms Berry.
‘From the kids to the nurses to the entire hospital, the impact has been incredible.
‘We are here to economically help, but the most important thing is to bring support to the kids.’
