TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) – Reid Park Zoo and Banner Diamond Children’s Medical Center teamed up on Oct. 14 for a fun and educational event that teaches children about their own and animal health.
“Unfortunately, a lot of kids experience medical trauma, and so we’re here to help break that medical trauma or prevent medical trauma. It’s through preparation and support,” said Hadley Trull, Associate Director of Children’s Division. This was revealed by Banner’s lifestyle department. “It’s a safe environment. When you’re in the medical field, you’re often in a fight-or-flight panic mode and can’t learn new skills.”
The purpose of the event was to help with that.
Amy Alvira, Reed Park Zoo Volunteer Programs Coordinator, said: Banner is here with doctors and nurses to talk about a variety of things, including respiratory therapy, physical therapy, overall safety and blood tests. ”
Reid Park Zoo has hosted this event for more than 10 years, but the addition of a new partnership with Banner makes it the largest event to date.
The first 1,000 children who attended the event received a teddy bear. Alternatively, we could bring a teddy bear and pass through the various stations within the zoo.
Rachel Chen, a high school student and volunteer at the zoo, said, “Kids interact with all the different things we do. They work as receptionists, nurses, and even bandage and vaccinate teddy bears.” It gives them the opportunity to learn about and participate in the different steps.”
