PolyU co-hosts 2023 Asia Child Life Symposium with the Hong Kong Children's Cancer Foundation
The 2023 Asia Child Life Symposium, themed ‘New Era in Child Life’, was a collaborative effort between the Children’s Cancer Foundation (CCF) and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Department of Health Technology and Informatics (HTI). Held at PolyU on August 12, 2023, the Symposium was opened by Dr Libby HY Lee, Undersecretary of the Health Bureau, HKSAR Government. This landmark gathering featured a diverse ensemble of global experts, child life specialists and healthcare professionals in paediatric cancer care.
The Symposium began with a thorough appraisal of existing child life care projects, marked by acknowledgements to partners and patrons. Notably, Prof. Shea-ping Yip and Prof. David Shum were recognised for their contributions and unreserved support to the field.
The Symposium began with a thorough appraisal of existing child life care projects, marked by acknowledgements to partners and patrons. Notably, Prof. Shea-ping Yip and Prof. David Shum were recognised for their contributions and unreserved support to the field.
Esteemed speakers, such as Ms Alisha Saavedra, Dr Frankie Wai Tsui Cheng, Dr Rever Chak Ho Li and Ms Janice Po King Ma, shared invaluable insights into paediatric cancer care landscapes across Hong Kong. Furthermore, international representatives, Mr Eugene Johnson and Ms Stephanie Hopkinson from the Association of Child Life Professionals in the United States, emphasised the critical importance of psychosocial care in child life services.
Facilitated by Prof. Li Chi Kong, a leading figure in paediatric cancer care in Hong Kong, the networking session witnessed reflections from distinguished panelists including Ms Xiang Bo Zhang and Dr Angelita Sievert-Fernandez. Their discussions honed in on the growth and transformation of Child Life programmes throughout Asia, fostering the sharing of novel insights and encouraging creative solutions from participants.
Facilitated by Prof. Li Chi Kong, a leading figure in paediatric cancer care in Hong Kong, the networking session witnessed reflections from distinguished panelists including Ms Xiang Bo Zhang and Dr Angelita Sievert-Fernandez. Their discussions honed in on the growth and transformation of Child Life programmes throughout Asia, fostering the sharing of novel insights and encouraging creative solutions from participants.
A significant highlight was the trailblazing Hybrid Immersive Virtual Environment workshop. Organised by the radiography team from HTI, led by Dr Shara Lee and supported by the PolyU Industrial Centre, it underscored the transformative capability of immersive reality in refining radiotherapy preparation for paediatric cancer patients. Notably, this innovation has reduced the need for general anaesthesia during radiotherapy by a highly significant 81% for workshop participants. Attendees were captivated by the team's skillful use of immersive reality. This collaborative effort, involving academics, students and radiation therapists, guides patients and caregivers in preparing for the radiation treatment journey.
The 2023 Asia Child Life Symposium showcased the unified vision and dedication of both the Department of Health Technology and Informatics and the Hong Kong Children’s Cancer Foundation. This event stands as a powerful testament to the unwavering commitment and enthusiasm of everyone involved in paediatric cancer care.
