A Co Cavan mother has described how a creative workshop run by Helium Arts - the children's charity committed to improving the wellbeing of children and young people living with lifelong physical health conditions - has transformed the confidence and wellbeing of her 15-year-old daughter who has hydrocephalus. Helium Arts recently expanded its Creative Health programme to hospitals and in the community in Dublin, serving families living in Cavan via online programmes. A free online Creative Arts summer camp is also available for children with lifelong physical health conditions, including in Cavan, in July. To register and for further information, visit www.helium.ie.
Mountnugent woman Sheila O’Brien is mum to Saoirse aged 15 who has hydrocephalus. Speaking to Northern Sound, Sheila said; "Saoirse has been lucky enough to participate in Helium Arts’ Creative Health programme since its foundation. At that time, she was struggling to find her place within her peer group and couldn’t join sports groups like her peers. Her participation in Helium has evolved her imagination, and filled her with confidence and courage. She is now a member of their Youth Advisory Group. Helium has transformed my daughter’s outlook and for that I am eternally grateful."
Saoirse also encouraged other young people to get involved; "It was just a wonderful experience. At the start, I was so scared and didn't want to go but then when I got there and experienced it I didn't want to leave. During Covid it was especially great because I could talk with other people my own age over the phone who I met through Helium Arts. It was great because even if the person didn't have the same condition as me, I knew what the other person was going through from spending time in in hospital along with other similarities. Helium really helped be break out of my shell and now I love to sow and do all different forms of artwork. I would encourage any young person to get involved. Even if it's scary, just trust yourself and you will enjoy it so much."
