Giggle Doctor visits for children in hospital

At the Theodora Children's Charity we help children living with illness, disability and serious health challenges to feel better using the proven power of laughter. Our vision is to contribute to the wellbeing of children in the 21 hospitals, 3 hospices and 2 specialist care centres we visit across England. 

By combining music, play, magic and storytelling our 33 Giggle Doctors bring joy and laughter to brave children in challenging times. From Dr Bananas to Dr Yoho, our Giggle Doctors wear their very own 'doctor coats', which represents their character, and spend time one to one with the children. During their visits our Giggle Doctors aim to, reduce stress and anxiety, increase opportunities for play and improve children’s well-being.

How your support helps children in hospital

Our Giggle Doctors have worked incredibly hard this past year to continue to virtually bring joy, laughter and magical moments to children in hospital as well as in person. Our Virtual Visits and Giggle-a-Grams have provided a much needed opportunity for play for children in hospital, or receiving treatment and recovering at home.  

Since returning to in person visits, our Giggle Doctors have carried out 86 hospital visits and visited 1,050 children undergoing treatment, despite ongoing Covid-19 restrictions.

"They were so funny and made everybody laugh, Dr Geehee was amazing and made me and my sons entire day better. It was just so lovely having them here and I 100% recommend them." - Marjeta

We have also had parents get in touch to share lovely memories they have of the times their families met the Giggle Doctors.

“Your Giggle Doctors brought a smile to my child’s face when he was very sick. They were so kind and genuinely funny people and even towards the end when he was at home, he was sent a slug to cheer him up. These were all taken in Brighton but he also saw them at the Royal Marsden. The last photo was during his last weeks of his life and he still had a smile on his face thanks to your wonderful team. Thank you for all you do. It means so much at such hard times. Your team helped Fletcher (and his family) lots.” - Sarah, Fletcher’s mum

It is thanks to supporters like you that we are able to continue reaching children and their families during challenging times, and help a child experience fun, play and laughter at a time when it is needed most.

If you have any questions or would like to find out more, please feel free to email ellen.blessington@theodora.org.