Sick children in the capital will be a little bit more comfortable during their hospital stays, with the launch of the ‘Wanna Read’ initiative.
The special programme, launched by HH Shaikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, features a dedicated children’s room meant to keep patients entertained and positive during their hospital stays and visits.
Located in the Paediatric Ward at Mafraq Hospital, the room contains a variety of entertainment for the young patients including books, stories and games all aimed at encouraging and promoting reading.
“I wish to provide a few moments of joy to the children and their families through this initiative at Mafraq Hospital. Seeing the children come in and explore the space has encouraged me to create additional ‘Wanna Read?’ Children’s Rooms in other SEHA facilities in the future,” said HH Shaikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan.
The programme, which is supported by a community of volunteers and donors, will help provide a positive space for ill children to gather together and have fun during what can be an otherwise stressful situation.
Currently the paediatric unit at Mafraq Hospital has 46 beds and typically receives around ten children daily, ranging from infants to 13 years of age. Visits can include short one-day stops and longer stays, depending on the patient.
Lee Huntley, CEO of Mafraq Hospital, added, “Her Highness has provided a calm, happy and helpful environment for children. We sincerely thank her for dedicating her time and resources to accomplish this achievement.”
