Healing space for local and young cancer patients created

Vukile Property Fund together with the Reach For A Dream Foundation have recently unveiled the Darren Serebro Dream Room at Bara Hospital, bringing hope and healing to teenagers fighting cancer.

It is equipped with a range of books, games, toys and electronic devices including a PlayStation four and computer games.

The Dream Room provides an inviting respite from the sterile and impersonal hospital ward.

“Reach For A Dream understands that hospital visits can be stressful and overwhelming for children and families, especially when they are facing serious health challenges,” says Mervyn Serebro, Chairman of the Reach For A Dream Foundation.

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“This Dream Room is dedicated to my son Darren, who we’ve sadly lost to cancer. It has been carefully designed to be an oasis, where we can inspire hope and enrich the lives of these youngsters. We hope it will have a positive impact on their overall well-being and recovery.”

The Darren Serebro room is the fifth Dream Room to be launched at Bara Hospital.

According to Professor Gita Naidu, Clinical Head of Paediatric Oncology, the effect that these rooms have on sick children, most of whom come from impoverished areas located far away from Johannesburg, is indescribable.

“Many of our teenagers in the Oncology ward feel isolated and alone. This Dream Room is equipped with all sorts of gadgets that will provide them with an escape and a place where they can socialise with their friends and family, adding some normalcy to their daily lives,” says Professor Naidu.

The Dream Room was made possible through a generous donation from Vukile Property Fund, which contributed funds to help design, construct, and equip the space.

“Our aim at Vukile Property Fund is to build communities and create value. Our long-standing relationship with Reach For A Dream has allowed us to make a difference in the lives of children facing immense health challenges,” says Laurence Rapp, CEO of Vukile Property Fund.

“This is our second Dream Room which we’ve funded. Our hope is that it will not only brighten their hospital stay but also give them a sense of comfort and strength.”

With its whimsical decor and soothing ambiance, the Dream Room has its own unique design for children to immerse themselves in imagination and play.

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“The room speaks to reaching for the sky and we played on this theme. The Darren Serebro room is split with a cloud arch that plays to the blue sky, enhancing the natural light in the computer nook, and a starry night in the PlayStation section.”

A resident Psychology graduate will also run a variety of fun and educational activities, ensuring that these teenagers’ developmental milestones are met.