Cancer is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. However, when it comes to children, the situation is even more heartbreaking. Childhood cancer not only affects the child, but it also affects their family and loved ones.
For families dealing with cancer, it can be a difficult and trying time, both emotionally and financially. This is where organizations like the ELPIDA Association come in. The ELPIDA Association works tirelessly to help children with cancer and their families through every step of the journey.
In this article, we will explore the ELPIDA Association in detail and why their work is so crucial.
What is ELPIDA Association?
ELPIDA Association is a Greek charity group that has been helping children with cancer and other serious diseases since 1990. The organization, which was founded by Marianna V. Vardinoyannis, is based in Athens and has a network of support across Greece.
ELPIDA Association is a non-profit organization that is fully dedicated to providing support, care, and hope to children with cancer and their families.
ELPIDA Association Services
The ELPIDA Association provides a variety of services to help children with cancer and their families. These services include:.
- Accommodation
- Pediatric oncology unit
- Day center
- Psychological support
- Recreational activities
- School
- Financial support
- Information services
These services are provided to help children with cancer and their families navigate the challenging road ahead. ELPIDA Association is committed to providing support and care to all those affected by the disease.
Accommodation
One of the most significant challenges for families whose children have cancer is finding suitable accommodation near treatment centers.
ELPIDA Association provides accommodation for families who have come from outside Athens and cannot afford to pay for accommodation. The organization has created a children’s cancer ward at the Athens General Children’s Hospital, where children with cancer can be treated and their families can stay.
Pediatric Oncology Unit
ELPIDA Association has established a pediatric oncology unit at the Athens General Children’s Hospital. The unit is staffed with specialized doctors and nurses who have experience in treating children with cancer.
The unit offers state-of-the-art treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical procedures.
Day Center
ELPIDA Association’s day center is a place where children with cancer can go to socialize and participate in recreational activities.
The center provides a safe and welcoming environment where children can meet others who are going through a similar experience. The day center offers a range of activities, including games, crafts, music, and sports.
Psychological Support
ELPIDA Association understands that a cancer diagnosis is not just a physical disease but an emotional one too. The organization provides psychological support to help children and their families cope with the diagnosis and its effects.
ELPIDA Association’s psychological support services include individual and family therapy, group therapy, and art therapy.
Recreational Activities
ELPIDA Association believes that children with cancer should have the opportunity to enjoy their childhood. The organization provides a range of recreational activities to help children with cancer feel like kids again.
Activities include movie nights, pizza parties, picnics, and visits to the zoo, among others.
School
It is essential for children with cancer to continue their education, even while undergoing treatment. ELPIDA Association provides a school program for children with cancer in Athens.
The program is staffed by experienced teachers and caters to the educational needs of children undergoing treatment for cancer.
Financial Support
ELPIDA Association provides financial support to families who need it. The organization understands that families with children diagnosed with cancer often face significant financial challenges, including paying for treatment and other expenses.
ELPIDA Association provides financial assistance to cover non-medical expenses such as accommodation, transportation, and food.
Information Services
ELPIDA Association provides information services to help parents and caregivers understand childhood cancer better.
The organization works closely with healthcare professionals and provides up-to-date information on the latest research, treatment options, and care services. The information services offered by ELPIDA Association are crucial in helping families make informed decisions about their child’s treatment and care.
Conclusion
The ELPIDA Association is an amazing organization that is dedicated to helping children with cancer and their families.
Their commitment to providing a range of services, including accommodation, treatment, psychological support, recreational activities, and financial support, is remarkable. The ELPIDA Association has made a significant difference in the lives of many families across Greece. Their work is inspiring and serves as a ray of hope for families dealing with childhood cancer.