Keren Joana, an unforgettable 1st welcome for all the family!
Pascale had had an idea in mind for some time: to welcome a child with a heart condition for the duration of her stay in France. After discussing it with her husband and 5 children, it was motivated by the desire to share their love that they all took the step of welcoming a child for the first time.
Little Keren Joana, aged 2 and originally from Cameroon, came into their lives one morning in October, immediately dispelling the children's apprehensions.
"Before Keren arrived, we were a bit scared and stressed. We asked ourselves a lot of questions: How would things go? How was she going to adapt without her parents when she's so small?
The doubts of Clément, Emma, Pauline, Maël and Tom, Pascale and David's children, soon gave way to relief when they discovered a little girl full of joy as soon as she arrived in their home.
As for Pascale, she was well prepared for the arrival : "I knew we'd have to get organized and make her our priority, but as everyone was ready to participate, I thought Keren's arrival and stay would go smoothly."
And she was right! Keren naturally found her place in the family and was totally accepted by her brothers and sister at heart.
"The children are very happy to have her at home. I was worried that Tom, who's only 6, might be a little jealous, but he's totally adopted her. He looks after her like a big brother. It's a real pleasure to see how the children love Keren and how the feeling is mutual. She's integrated so well into the family that Tom added "Too bad she's not my little sister!"
On arrival, during his hospitalization and throughout his convalescence, they all remember him only the best, and are ready to recommend other families to take the plunge.
"It's an incredible experience. Of course I encourage families to live this adventure: welcoming a sick child, giving him time and love during his stay, and knowing that he'll be reunited with his family in good health... it's nothing but happiness! What's more, I think it's important to teach our children to share their happiness and to make them realize that they are lucky to be in good health." concludes Pascale.
To find out more about our host families, click here!
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Pascale Grais, Director of the Association's Medical Department, on 01 49 24 02 02 or by e-mail at pgrais@mecenat-cardiaque.org.
