Did you know that The Breast Care Centre of Excellence at Netcare Milpark Hospital offers childcare while patients are consulting with healthcare professionals?
The au pair
Gabriella Frantzeskakis (18) lives in Northcliff, Gauteng.
Young Gabriella was a patient of Prof Carol-Ann Benn and during her consult, just after receiving her matric results (she matriculated in the class of 2021 from De La Salle Holy Cross College High), Prof Benn asked her what her plans were and how she did in matric. “I explained how I planned to au pair for families, take some extra courses and travel for a year and to then branch into health sciences. She immediately responded how she wanted an au pair for The Breast Care Centre of Excellence and would love to have me around as an extra hand,” Gabriella explains.
The 18-year-old took up the opportunity and started working in February after her surgery for a benign tumour. “I was excited to be involved in a medical environment while attending to the children; these are two aspects that I have a great interest in. I have an immense love for children and babies and interested in the healthcare system. I quickly became in awe of Prof Benn’s approach to patient care and the success of the centre. It’s been an honour and privilege to be around such a determined and intelligent team at the start of my career,” the young girl explains.
Future studies
Gabriella plans to study a Bachelor of Clinical Medical Practice at Wits University to become a clinical associate. “I will perhaps study further into emergency medicine or other fields in health sciences.”
Helping hand
“Having childcare readily available at the Breast Care Centre is beneficial as some parents need a helping hand with their young children, especially while waiting for their appointment and keeping the younger children busy with interactive activities and playtime.”
“This type of childcare brightens up the child’s experience at the centre while their parent or family member is receiving treatment. This helps to take away the scary stigma of hospitals and makes it feel more like visiting a friend in a comfortable environment while your loved one is receiving treatment,” Gabriella says.
Making children feel at ease
When asked how Gabriella entertains the children, she responds, “Usually on the first introduction, I play a game, such as Jenga, so that we can chat, and the child can become more comfortable while entertained by the games.”
She goes on to say, “On my first week, I painted a chalk board wall for the children, purchased some new toys and educational games, as well as adding a dress up box and some play dough. During Easter, I planned Easter egg hunts, egg and cookie decorating and face painting.”
We are sure all parents are grateful for this free added service as it surely helps ease the road of a breast cancer patient.
For more info, contact Gaby on 079 817 4899 or [email protected]
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Laurelle Williams is the editor at Word for Word Media. She graduated from AFDA with a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Live Performance. She has a love for storytelling and sharing emotions through the power of words. Write to [email protected]
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