The Smile Shop ™

Our Play Specialists

In May 2005, Abbie had been complaining of a sore knee and it was slightly swollen. In July Abbie was diagnosed with osteosarcoma (bone cancer).

Abbie's mum Libby says "The chemo really knocked Abbie out. She was exhausted, and some days she couldn't even get up to have a wash. Sam the CLIC Sargent play specialist would visit the ward and come and see us".

"[Sam's] brilliant. She'd come in to the ward and bring in games and beads and pottery. We'd all sit around making pom poms. She talked to Abbie about what was going on; she had an elephant with a central line in that Abbie could play with."

Play specialists often communicate more effectively what is going to happen on a child's level.

"She really helped, making Abbie less frightened and giving me a little rest..."

"Abbie dealt with her treatment incredibly well. The doctors were surprised. She tolerated the drugs really well."

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