Speare Memorial Hospital introduces 'Courage Kits' for pediatric patients

PLYMOUTH — Members of Plymouth Rotary Club were joined by Speare Memorial Hospital President & CEO Craig Williams and Plymouth State University student and medical assistant Shelby Whitehouse for the presentation of a $500 check to the hospital in support of Sydney’s “Courage Kits” project on Aug. 12. Whitehouse designed Courage Kits to reduce fear and anxiety in pediatric patients. These kits were developed as a group capstone project of a course focused on art and empathy in healthcare. The group partnered with Plymouth Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine.

This donation will help complete 48 Courage Kits. The kits include stress and calming tools, art and activities such as coloring books, things to assist with mindfulness and processing, and comfort items such as courage capes and animal plushies.

The hope is that by reducing fear and anxiety, children and adolescents will have more positive healthcare experiences. Reduced stress for children results in less stress for families, a greater sense of support, and provides practical tools to use at home. It also helps providers by improving patient cooperation, leading to better patient experiences and family-centered care.

One of Plymouth Rotary Club’s areas of focus as a part of Rotary International is “child and maternal health,” and they are grateful for this opportunity to serve the greater Plymouth community through this unique, compassionate project.

For more information, visit plymouthrotarynh.org.