An innovative new programme designed to keep young leukaemia and blood cancer patients connected to their classmates while they undergo treatment is now available to LBC families in New Zealand.
The Monkey in My Chair programme has proven to be a very successful therapeutic resource overseas. We are excited to be able to bring the programme to New Zealand to help keep young patients, teachers and classmates connected in a really positive, supportive and compassionate way.
The Monkey in My Chair kit comes with two adorable fluffy monkeys plus a range of educational books, teacher guides and LBC resources.
When a young person is away from school, the bigger of the two monkeys sits in the student’s chair, while the smaller monkey keeps the patient company while they are missing their friends at school.
When a child is diagnosed, treatment often starts right away and this can lead to absences from school which can be unsettling for the patient, their classmates and teacher.
Classmates are encouraged to include the big monkey in lessons and send messages and news to their friend using Monkey’s bright yellow backpack.
LBC’s support services staff will work with a patient’s parents and school to use the kits in a way which is easy, fun and helpful for everyone involved.
LBC gratefully acknowledges The Cure Starts Now Foundation in Australia for enabling it to bring Monkey In My Chair to families in New Zealand.