At CHSF, we know that caring for people with congenital heart disease involves more than treating just the heart itself. It is so much more than that.
That’s why Mindfulness Welcome Packs are now being given to families when they arrive on the children’s heart ward, Ward L51.
Put together by CHSF’s Family Support team, these packs are a valuable tool for supporting parental wellbeing during what can be an incredibly challenging time. These packs are carefully curated to offer a blend of practical items and mindful activities.
Family Support & Youth Worker, Lucy, said:
“Hospitalisation can be a stressful experience for parents. The inclusion of items like stress balls, colouring books, and puzzle books provides opportunities for relaxation and distraction.
Engaging in these activities can help parents alleviate stress, unwind, and temporarily escape from the hospital environment.
“By providing items such as these, we encourage parents to engage in mindful activities that promote relaxation.
Some of the items included in our Mindfulness Packs are things like colouring books, water, a notepad and pen, a stress ball and hot drinks.
“These activities not only offer a break from ward life but also encourage mindfulness and the promoting of overall wellness.
“Staying hydrated and well fed is essential for maintaining physical health. Including two bottles of water and a snack in the mindfulness packs ensures that parents have access to refreshments throughout their stay on the ward. By prioritising hydration and nutrition, we support parent wellbeing and provide them with the energy they need to navigate the demands of staying on the ward.
“These packs serve as tangible reminders that the parent’s wellbeing matters, and it is essential to take moments for themselves.”
“The small comforts provided in the mindfulness packs, such as tea bags, coffee, and a notebook with pens, offer a sense of normalcy and familiarity in an unfamiliar environment. These items provide opportunities for parents to engage in tasks that bring them comfort and joy, whether it’s enjoying a brew or jotting down thoughts and reflections.
“By equipping parents with mindfulness packs upon their arrival, we empower them to prioritise their own self-care during their hospital stay. These packs serve as tangible reminders that their wellbeing matters and that it’s essential to take moments for themselves.
“The mindfulness packs provided to parents on Ward L51 play a crucial role in supporting parent wellbeing during their time on the ward. By offering a combination of relaxation tools, food, and comfort items, we aim to lighten the load slightly during a difficult time. Our mindfulness packs are a tangible sign of care and support, reinforcing our commitment to holistic wellbeing for families on our ward.”
New ECHO Software for LCHU
Because of you, CHSF have been able to fund new state-of-the-art software for the Congenital Echo department at the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit. The team got it up and running in July, and it's already making a big difference in the clinic! This software provides the...
Leila’s fellowship in Canada: One year on
Leila is a Paediatric Cardiologist at our wonderful Leeds Congenital Heart Unit caring for our youngest heart patients and their families, before and after surgery. Last year, Children's Heart Surgery Fund collaborated with Leeds Hospitals Charity to offer financial...
Georgie visits Outpatients
written by Georgie Abbott What do you think defines a productive and happy team of colleagues? This morning I had the privilege to spend some time with the Paediatric Cardiac Outpatients team at the Leeds General Infirmary and I’m sure all teams could learn something...