THE NEEDS OF SIBLINGS

When a child is diagnosed with a serious or debilitating illness, the family’s entire world is turned upside down. Time is filled up with doctor and clinic visits, tests and more tests, treatments and more treatments.

The patient isn’t the only one effected: the siblings pay the price as well. The childhood they once knew changes dramatically as their parents’ time is now divided strenuously between caring for the sick or disabled child, as well as work and home. Often, the siblings are left to wonder, “But…what about me?!”

Many deal with a wide range of confusing emotions such as resentment, fear, guilt, embarrassment and sorrow. Some withdraw in order to distance themselves from the situation. Others become disruptive or aggressive in an attempt to gain control or cope. For many, the effects can last a lifetime. Art with Heart’s newest book that was designed to meet these diverse issues head on.

STATISTICS

A survey by the Health Resources and Services Administration (part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services), found 10.2 million U.S. children in the have special healthcare needs, or 14 percent of all U.S. children. More than one-fifth of U.S. households with children have at least one child with special needs. Children with special healthcare needs are defined as having or being at risk for “chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional conditions that have lasted or are expected to last at least 12 months.” The survey also found that families are struggling with the demands of caring for a special needs child with 12 percent of families requiring mental healthcare or counseling related to the child’s medical, behavioral or other health conditions. The survey screened 364,841 children for special healthcare needs and completed 40,840 interviews with families of children for special healthcare needs.

MAGNIFICENT MARVELOUS ME!

After the success of both Chill & Spill and Oodles of Doodles, Art with Heart began researching to find out what other needs we could meet through our unique and therapeutic books. The need that kept rising to the top was the under-served siblings of seriously ill or special needs children. We conducted a survey with siblings of all ages to find out what types of issues they were facing.

After much research which confirmed this need, we began working with a group of experts on sibling issues who became our Project Partners and Advisors. They helped us identify the issues that siblings face as well as the therapies that have been shown effective with ages 10 and under.

After compiling the therapies and translating it into kid-friendly language, we invited 47 different illustrators from all over the world to contribute their time and talent to help make this project both meaningful and visually exciting for the children. Most of these hand-picked illustrators have many children’s books, games or other projects in their portfolio, ensuring that the children would be thrilled to receive and work in the book. But most importantly, because each activity is based in therapy, it will provide them with a safe place to express themselves amidst the difficulties and uncertainty.

It is filled with engaging drawing and coloring activities, with age-appropriate short questions and answers. Its title, “Magnificent Marvelous Me” reflects the deep-seeded need for the child to matter, and to voice their own importance in the family. It is similar in look and feel to Oodles of Doodles. Our vision is that for every patient that receives Oodles, their sibling will also be handed their own special book, but one designed for them, so that they can journey towards a strong and healthy future.

It will debut this summer at the National Child Life Conference in San Diego in May, and will become available for purchase in June 2008 at artwithheartshop.org. Additional book details can be viewed here.

The second book – now in process – will focus on children ages 11+ and will be available before the beginning of 2009.

HOW YOU CAN HELP SIBS

Through the generosity of ColorGraphics and Sappi, $45,000 worth of expenses have been covered. However, we are still in need of $20,000 more to support this important project.

The first printing of both books will be able to help 10,000 children across North America. All individual donors above the $500 level will see their name in print on the acknowledgment page inside the second book. Corporations and in-kind donors at the $2,500+ level will also receive mention on the back cover of second book. Make your donation today!