Panda Cares Center of Hope
MOMENTS OF JOY DO MORE THAN LIFT THE SPIRITS OF KIDS BATTLING HEALTH CHALLENGES , IT CAN HELP THEM HEAL . Now , there is a new space to do both at Kapi ‘ olani Medical Center for Women & Children ; the newly named Panda Cares Center of Hope . Formerly known by pediatric patients as “ The Playroom ,“ this specialized center , supported by the Panda Restaurant Group , is dedicated to promoting healing and inspiring hope while addressing all facets of a child ‘ s well-being .
“ We are proud to partner with Children ‘ s Miracle Network Hospitals to bring the vision of the Panda Cares Center of Hope to life and are humbled to be able to be part of the healing journey for the families and kids at these hospitals ,“ said Peggy Cherng , Ph . D ., co-founder and co-CEO of Panda Restaurant Group . “ Children are our future , and we hope that through this partnership and curriculum designed to give children the strength to thrive , we will bring smiles and hope to communities nationwide .“
Panda Cares Center of Hope opening at Kapi ‘ olani Medical Center in August 2020 .
The Panda Cares Center of Hope is a safe space for kids to be kids and serves as a distraction from the clinical aspect of hospitalization . Medical staff work with the Child Life staff to create a multidisciplinary plan that touches all parts of a child ‘ s health and happiness .
The center focuses on the needs of patients in multiple ways . Physically , play areas with toys keep kids active and boost motor skills . An outside patio gives them a chance to also enjoy time in the sunshine . Kapi ‘ olani staff members help patients cope emotionally with illness and hospitalization through art therapy , music therapy , pet therapy , counseling and family programs that involve parents and siblings . Mental well-being is supported by Child Life specialists who use fun activities like medical play to help children deal with their treatment and new surroundings . One way to ease fears is with special dolls and medical equipment that allow kids to act out impending medical procedures . Educational services provide the comforting normalcy of school and class work with tutoring services while a dedicated chaplain and two chapels offer faith-based support and comfort through spiritual services that are available 24 hours a day .
The generosity is incredible . Panda Express associates and guests in Hawai ‘ i have raised more than $ 1.8 million for Kapi ‘ olani since 2007 .
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