Barretstown

About Barretstown

At Barretstown the focus is on ‘Serious Fun’.

Children, aged seven to 17, with cancer, blood disorders and other serious illnesses come from Ireland and all over Europe to take part in the life-changing programme.

Kids who come to Barretstown have often been traumatised by the experiences of their illness. The rigorous treatment regimes have taken their toll on their bodies, their families and their psychological well-being. They have often missed out on normal childhood experiences such as making friends, gaining independence and exercising their own choices.

Backed by medical experts, the programme is seen as an integral component in helping with a child’s recovery.

The children take part in a range of arts, adventure and fun activities at the centre in Ballymore Eustace, Co Kildare: from performing on stage and climbing the 40ft giant’s tower, to fishing, horse riding, photography and pottery.

All this is done in a physically and emotionally safe environment:

• The children are encouraged, never forced, to take part
• There is a 24-hour medical facility staffed by specialist doctors and nurses
• There is one specially-trained volunteer or ‘cara’ assigned to care for two children

As their families, their hospital consultants and the children themselves testify, the result of a stay at Barretstown is increased self-esteem, improved self-image, greater tolerance, understanding and new coping skills to help them deal with the challenges of their illness.

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