Charity work with kids?

Question

I had a lot of trauma and bad experiences in a hospital...but I wanted to try and overcome my fear and anxiety by helping out. I don't want to run, but deal things head on.

I would like to help patients as a...I dunno, to talk to patients who maybe dont have anyone to talk to. Id like to work with children or in a children's ward, I know what its like to be lonely and scared in a hospital with no friends.

Im not sure as to the best way to go ahead with this...can anyone please point me in the right direction?

Answer 1

It's great that you want to use your own experience to help others, but, without training or counseling, you could get in over your head.

Why not start with talking with blood donors? Until you're sure that your own trauma won't hit you while you're with kids, you should leave the sick ones alone. Some people, like me, give blood, but don't really like thinking about it so having someone to talk to during the process really helps.

Call the local blood center and ask if you can come and help out that way. If they aren't receptive, find a church, business or campus that's having a blood drive. They should be thrilled.

The other way to start small is by offering to be "in charge" of the play area in a multi-doctor pediatrician practice or for hospital visitors. Kids get tired and bored in most hospital rooms, but the parents who brought them want/need to stay. If the hospital has provided a place, you could supervise their play and talk with them.

Answer 2

you can start in pediatric clinics where many children get their immunizations and are afraid of injections. you can be there for them to pacify them and lessen their fears. i am sure that any pediatrician will welcome your sincere intensions on this. i salute you for having a great feel for the children. the more that you will be blessed. good luck