Renfrewshire mum hails NHS heroes for helping child overcome hospital anxieties

Emily Doon, from Lochwinnoch, has struggled with bowel and bladder issues since birth which has forced her to undergo many complex surgeries and treatments.

It has left the eight-year-old suffering high levels of stress, but her fears were reduced at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow after being introduced to the play team.

It allowed staff to play a key role in helping Emily learn more about medical procedures while helping to ease her concerns and comfort her.

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Emily’s mum Julie said: “Emily first met the play team when she was four and interactions with them have been the key to the success of most of the things that Emily has been able to achieve.

“When she first came to the hospital she was very nervous about what the experience would be like and was a bit scared of what would happen.

“The play team has seen her through so many procedures.

“We use them both before appointments for preparation and after to allow her a pressure-free space to relax.

“I'm also so grateful for the support they have given myself.

“They talk me through different ways I can help Emily and help me to think outside the box when things are tough.

“They are also so incredibly easy to talk to and can make the most difficult days better just by listening and chatting.

“Sometimes I need the support as much as Emily and they are always there to help.

“They have also worked with Emily’s sister on occasions when she has been at the hospital with her to ensure she doesn't feel left out and that she understands what is happening with Emily as well.”

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Emily has a particular bond with Teri Wright, who is one of the health play specialists at the RHC.

By listening to her concerns, playing games or explaining procedures in an interactive way at the site’s Teddy Hospital, which is the only one of its kind in Scotland, Teri has always been able to find a connection with Emily.

Last month, Teri and her colleague Wendy McKechnie, who is a play assistant, were recognised by the Children’s Health Scotland Awards for their amazing work, with Teri finding out after the event that Emily nominated her.

Julie added: “Teri has helped Emily through some of the most challenging times, she can tell if she is having an off day and is really attentive to her interests and knows how to get her engaging.

“The impact was so clear during Covid-19. I think that time really highlighted the importance of the team.

"You could really see Teri’s smile behind the mask which was so important in keeping Emily positive and interested.

“Despite the masks Teri’s friendly face was still shining through keeping fun and familiarity as the focus at an otherwise really uncertain time.”

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The work of the RHC’s play team also receives support from the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, who have witnessed the impact of play on patients and their families.