The famous Clown Doctors will spread their cheer around Sale Hospital on Tuesday 25 February and hopefully bring smiles to the faces of patients of all ages.
Dr Doctor and Dr Achoo have packed their ukuleles, red noses and every joke in the book into the Clowns Doctors van to bring their magic to the Central Gippsland Health.
The Clown Doctor program is provided by The Humour Foundation, an Australian charity dedicated to bringing the health benefits of humour to the community.
“Clown Doctors inject hope and happiness into the lives of sick children,” said David Symons, Artistic Director of The Humour Foundation. “International research shows that laughter has both physiological and psychological benefits in recovery.”
“It has a positive effect on the heart rate and blood pressure, helps the immune system, and reduces pain and stress. It also creates bonds between people and helps them cope with difficult situations.”
CGH Chief Executive Officer, Dr Frank Evans, said the hospital was delighted to host the very first visit by the Clown Doctors.
“We are happy to support any program that may improve the wellbeing of our patients, especially children,” Dr Evans said.
By parodying the hospital routine with jokes, songs, magic and play, Clown Doctors engage children at their bedside and help them to adapt to hospital life. ‘Red-nose’ transplants, ‘cat’ scans and funny bone examinations are all part of the show.
With generous support from the Moose Toys Foundation, Clown Doctors has been able to get the tour on the road.