One of Wyeth’s most important partners for a better world is Barretstown in Ireland - an innovative recreational facility for seriously ill children from all over Europe. The organisation was founded by actor Paul Newman in 1994, following the success of his Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in the United States. Wyeth has been a major sponsor of Barretstown since 1998. The company's support is more than just financial - staff are encouraged and enabled to participate at the camp, actively working as volunteers alonside Barretstown staff.
Barretstown calls its unique programme of activities Therapeutic Recreation. The 10-day summer sessions offer children ages 7-17 the chance to experience a range of fun activities that also are designed to promote self-esteem, confidence, independence, trust and coping skills. Campers participate in outdoor adventures such as horseback riding and canoeing, creative endeavours and sporting events. Equally important, they have the opportunity to develop friendships with other children who know how it feels to battle a serious illness.
To support this vulnerable population, each child receives individualised attention from a highly trained supervisor called a “cara,” the Irish word for friend. The camp also has a fully equipped medical centre staffed by volunteer paediatric doctors and nurses. It is this combination of carefully designed recreation and medical support that allows the camp to deliver on its motto: Helping seriously ill children rediscover the wonder of childhood.
Wyeth in the UK is also working with Barretstown to help run special camps for children suffering from Haemophilia and Juvenile Arthritis. Visit www.barretstown.org for more information.