The Charlotte Maxeke hospital in Johannesburg today became the first in South Africa to have its own school playground. Funded by Medscheme, it is hoped that the playground will bring some normality to the lives of chronically and terminally ill children.

The playground was specially planned and built to avoid sharp surfaces, metal corners or pipes to take into account the physical frailties of children susceptible to cuts, bruises or more severe injuries.

“A panel of medical staff and specialists in designing play areas contributed ideas and the result has been what is probably South Africa’s most expensive – but safest play area,” said Andre Meyer, CEO of Medscheme.

The Gauteng MEC for Health and Social Development, Qedani Mahlangu, thanked Medscheme for their leadership and vision, and said that the playground fits in with government’s vision to embrace public-private partnerships. She emphasized that it was important to make sure that children can continue learning and developing while in hospital.

According to Ronel van Biljon, principal of the Johannesburg Hospital School, they have about eighty long-term pupils, with about fifty short-term pupils who move in and out of the school and hospital. The school is held up as an example to other hospital schools, and caters to children from grade R to 12, with the first grade 12 successfully completing his senior exams in 2004.

Van Biljon said about 90% of the school’s pupils are in hospital because of cancer or liver failure, and that having a place to play safely and enjoy the open air is of huge importance.

“Play is an essential element in childhood development. It is good for the mind and body and an essential element in the holistic treatment of children who suffer chronic illness.”

Construction of the playground cost about R550 000, bringing Medscheme’s financial support of the Johannesburg Hospital School up to R1.1 million. However, according to Medscheme CEO Andre Meyer, the unveiling of the new playground is their proudest achievement to date.

Children from the school sang a song to thank Medscheme for their new playground, and were thrilled to meet World Cup mascot, Zakumi, and kick around a soccer ball with him.

14-year old Annah Seoahodimo is diabetic, and has been in hospital for eight years. She said the hospital school is the place where she belongs, and gives her a good education. “Sometimes I feel like I know more than the kids in other schools,” said Annah.

She added that before the new playground they stayed inside during break times.  “It was kind of boring. Now we can be entertained and feel like any other kids.” Annah said they will use the new play area to relax, read books, feel the “beautiful sun” or play games like “There’s a fire on the mountain”. 

Phuti Ramatapa, a matric pupil who has been hospitalized for three years, added that the only problem they have left is convincing the principal to give them a longer break time.

Linda Krige