Montenegro, February 5, 2020
Photo: diaconia.ru
With the help of the Russian Church, a free rehabilitation-educational camp has been launched for families with seriously ill children and children who suffer or have suffered from severe conditions and diseaes, including heart disease, diabetes, cerebral palsy, and cancer.
The project was organized by the “Good Deed” Russian Orthodox Diakonia in Europe organization, reports the Russian Church’s Synodal Department for Charity and Social Services.
Photo: diaconia.ru
The rehab program, “Dobro More,” is designed for Russian-speaking families from throughout Europe. Each session lasts 10 days, immersing participants in interactive activities, creative master classes, sap surfing classes, horse riding, excursions, hikes, and more.
“The main mission of the Dobro More project is to create a space where everyone can reboot and restore resources for further struggle with the disease or its consequences,” says Alina Titova, head of the Good Deed volunteer organization and initiator of the project.
Photo: diaconia.ru
The program uses therapeutic recreation, she says. “With creative entertainment, we can help people, if not forget about the disease, then significantly reduce its harmful impact on all family members.”
The uniqueness of the program lies in the comprehensive support not only for the child, but also for the family members, which contributes to the rapid psychological and physical recovery of the children, reduces anxiety, and increases self-confidence.
Photo: diaconia.ru
The first session of the camp was held at a 5-star hotel in the city of Budva in late 2019, and the camp is currently taking applications for the second session in March.
The organization Good Deed consists of more than 300 volunteers from Germany, Russia, the Netherlands, France, Belgium and other countries who help seriously ill children and their families from former Soviet states who come to Europe for treatment. Orthodox volunteers support patients in clinics, help with the organization of treatment and accommodation, and translate medical reports. About 50 families receive targeted assistance every month.
