Lydia Abela Joins Young Entrepreneurs Helping Kids In Medical Care

During a visit to Mater Dei Hospital, Lydia Abela accompanied a group of young entrepreneurs involved in a social initiative designed to support children receiving medical care.

The project, known as Dr Sunshine and run under a programme by the JA Malta Foundation, aims to provide comfort, reassurance and positive distraction to young patients during their hospital stay.

The initiative focuses on distributing comfort kits that include reading books, colouring materials and blankets.

These items are intended to help create a calmer environment and encourage creativity and imagination among children undergoing treatment.

The concept originated from the personal experience of Yasmine Shawish, who as a child spent time in hospital and encountered a young patient who felt lonely.

Her decision to share her toys highlighted to her the impact that small gestures can have in difficult circumstances.

Inspired by this experience, Shawish collaborated with students from St Aloysius College and Junior College to develop the project further. The comfort kits were created following research to identify items that could best support young patients in managing stress and discomfort.

During the visit, Abela praised the initiative, noting that it combines entrepreneurial skills with social responsibility.

She also met hospitalised children and their families, offering encouragement, and thanked healthcare professionals for their continued dedication to patient care and wellbeing.

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