2 minute read
The Costas Center
Child Life Services and Dance Therapy
When children need intense cancer treatment or bone marrow transplants, they are admitted to The Costas Center Inpatient Cancer Unit. Weeks or months of intense care can result in prolonged periods of inactivity, which is difficult for kids. “We have patients who need to get out of bed and move but are feeling tired or depressed, and physical therapy feels too clinical,” says Robert Parker, CPNP-APRN, BSN, MSN, a pediatric nurse practitioner in The Costas Center. “That's where Child Life and Creative Arts Therapies programs help our Costas patients.
Dance Therapy is a fun activity that motivates patients to get out of bed. Then, in the days that follow, we reintroduce physical therapy to help them build strength. It is so important for these kids to have non-medical people who get to know them and aren’t going to poke them with needles!” Child Life services are not covered by insurance, yet they are integral to pediatric health. Your support makes these important services possible.
Comfort Ability Program
The Costas Center provides treatment for more than just cancer; we are also a designated treatment center for Sickle Cell Disease in Missouri and Illinois. Thanks to donor support, our staff received training on The Comfort Ability® Program, a nonpharmacological self-management program that helps children, teens and caregivers manage recurring symptoms such as chronic pain (nerve, muscle or joint pain, headaches, abdominal pain, etc.), nausea, dizziness, fatigue and muscle weakness which can increase hospitalizations.
Abigail Sharamitaro, MSN, RN, CPNP, CPON, and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in The Costas Center (shown in photo at left) explains, "In addition to treating symptoms, we ensure patients receive recommended vaccines, meet developmental milestones and achieve academic goals." Research shows that patients using active coping strategies have fewer health care crises and less disruption to daily activities. Donor support made this specialized staff training possible.
