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Southlake’s “You’re the Star” Program Helps Kids Prepare for Surgery

Newmarket, Ontario - May 1, 2006 - Following a three-year hiatus, Southlake Regional Health Centre has reintroduced its You’re the Star Program for children between the ages of two and twelve who are scheduled for surgery. Intended to help alleviate the anxiety and stress associated with surgery and hospitalization, the program is designed as a dress rehearsal where each child is made the star of his or her operation.

“Studies have shown that children who are prepared in advance through programs such as ours are less anxious about coming to the hospital for surgery than those kids who aren’t sure of what to expect,” said Dr. David Finkelstein, Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist.

“In our experience, the parents gain as much, if not more, from the program as their kids do.”

In the 90-minute program which runs every other week, kids and parents tour the operating room, have an opportunity to see and feel commonly used medical instruments and express their feelings through puppet play. Each class is run by a nurse and volunteer who help answer questions, address some of the fears associated with surgery and give kids the opportunity to meet some of the people they may see when they come to the Hospital.

“It’s amazing for us to be able to show our young patients that the hospital is a friendly place and reassure their parents that their kids are in good hands,” remarked Debbie Welling, one of the Registered Nurses who runs the program.

Southlake is also pleased to announce that York Region Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has sponsored the program through the purchase of stuffed owls which will be provided to each child who comes through the program.

“This is a great program and we are so pleased to have the opportunity to partner with Southlake to help make children’s health care experience less intimidating,” said Ryan Jagoe of York Region EMS.

Families who are interested in participating in this free program are encouraged to call (905) 895-4521, extension 2665 two weeks prior to their child’s scheduled date of surgery in order to register for the program.

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