We are proud to support life-changing initiatives like drama therapy, which provides a safe space for children and their families to navigate the emotional challenges of life-limiting conditions. Through our funding of 300 drama therapy sessions at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice, we aim to ensure that more families experience the profound impact of this creative and therapeutic approach.
One family that has benefitted from these services is Christina, Jack, and their two sons, Arthur and Joseph. Their story is a testament to the transformative power of drama therapy in helping families find resilience during difficult times.
Arthur’s Journey: Finding Joy in Creative Therapy
Arthur was born in February 2023 with severe Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE), and his early days were filled with uncertainty and fear. Initially given a devastating prognosis, Arthur’s condition improved, and by May 2023, his care pathway was reassessed. Throughout his journey, Noah’s Ark provided vital support, including music therapy, baby massage, and ‘Tunes and Tales,’ a group drama therapy session for young children led by Pasha, Noah’s Ark’s Drama and Movement Therapist.
Christina described how Arthur thrived in the ‘Tunes and Tales’ sessions, responding to the group’s routine and finding joy in being around other children. “Arthur loves being around other children, and you can tell he notices when others are there. Even with his neurological challenges, he recognizes patterns to some extent, and the routine of the group has been so beneficial.”
Joseph’s Story: Building Confidence and Emotional Resilience
Arthur’s older brother, Joseph, aged nine, also experienced the profound benefits of drama therapy. Navigating the emotional toll of his brother’s condition, Joseph had become withdrawn and struggled to express his feelings. Christina noted, “Joseph was extremely introverted. At school, he would put up a front, telling everyone he was okay, but at home, he was angry and upset.”
Drama therapy became a turning point for Joseph. In his weekly sessions with Pasha, he found a safe space to explore his emotions through play, movement, and metaphor. Pasha’s approach allowed Joseph to process his feelings in ways that felt natural and non-confrontational. Christina explained, “Dramatherapy made it much easier for him to talk. It was his outlet, and he loved the tactile and playful elements of the therapy.”
The impact of these sessions was life-changing. Joseph began opening up to his teachers, sharing concerns about his brother’s hospital visits and verbalizing his worries. “His school noticed a real change,” Christina shared. “Dramatherapy gave him the tools to tackle overwhelming emotions in a way that talking alone couldn’t achieve.”
Why Drama Therapy Matters
Drama therapy offers children like Joseph a unique way to process emotions, using storytelling, role-play, and movement to navigate difficult feelings. Pasha explains, “It’s a rehearsal space for life—a secure place where children can get things wrong, struggle, and practice difficult situations. It allows them to explore different parts of themselves in a way that’s safe and helpful.”
For siblings of children with life-limiting conditions, the emotional impact can be profound. Pasha notes, “Siblings often feel guilt, anger, or frustration as their home life is transformed by medical equipment and professionals. Drama therapy provides them with permission to explore these complicated emotions and express them safely.”
Join Us in Supporting More Families Like Joseph’s
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, The Murray Parish Trust is funding 300 drama therapy sessions at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice, ensuring more children and families have access to this vital resource.
Your donations help us bring joy, resilience, and healing to families facing unimaginable challenges. Together, we can continue to fund projects that transform lives.
