The difference the Giggle Doctors made for Eliza

’Eliza has juvenile arthritis, which means that her immune system attacks her joints and her eyes. Because of that she regularly has to go to the hospital for appointments. She can still see, but that is thanks to painful treatment and medication that she has to receive regularly.  Eliza is very brave and gets on with it all, but the treatment is heavy and leaves her exhausted and nauseous. So even though all the nurses are incredible and make us feel welcome, the time she spends in hospital is quite difficult for her. As a mum, it is also tough for me too, see her going through this.

The Giggle Doctor visits were amazing. We have met both Dr Teapot and Dr Nic Nac. I particularly remember the first time we met Dr Teapot. We saw this man coming in our room with a teapot on his head! Within 30 seconds we were crying with laughter. He wasn’t just telling jokes, but fully entertaining us. We were hysterical. Even after he had left the room we were still laughing! It really cheered Eliza up and me too. It was a really special treat. It has also given her a positive memory of her time in hospital. Every time we have to go back to the hospital for another appointment, she asks if she will be able to see the Giggle Doctors again. It really does make a difference to children who are having treatment of any sort, but especially those with long term, chronic illnesses.’’