The Tyler Foundation is currently working on implementing three exciting programs:
Shine On! Beads of Courage
Goal - Research in the US has demonstrated that the program helps to “decrease illness-related distress, increase the use of positive coping strategies, [enable] children [to] find meaning in illness, and restore sense of self in children coping with serious illness.”
(ref: http://www.beadsofcourage.net)
Shine On! Therapy Dog Program
Goal - To improve treatment outcome and improve children’s approach to cancer treatment/therapy
Shine On! House
Goal - To create a long-term, low-cost accommodation facility for families of hospitalized children (note: families of children with any serious disease or problem would be welcome to stay, not just cancer) which provides complete family support including:
-Childcare for siblings of patients
-Counseling/support for families, patients and siblings
-Fun activities and educational/support workshops for siblings and families on weekends
-A relaxation space for parents
Description - A well-established and impactful program in pediatric oncology wards across the US not yet introduced in Japan. Beads are presented for critical events in a child’s cancer treatment program to serve as a tangible record of their courageous journey. Training for staff and counseling for family are also provided.
Term - To begin early autumn 2008
Need - Long-term hospitalization and cancer treatments can be very stressful for children.
Description - The Tyler Foundation acquires a trained, certified therapy dog and hires a certified handler. The dog makes regular (ideally daily, but may start as weekly) visits to the children’s wards in given hospital.
Term - To start winter 2008
Description - The Tyler Foundation builds/rents a property and hires necessary staff to create this full-service accommodation and support facility
Term - 5 years to completion