You might be wondering what a medical clown is and why I chose this unconventional career path. Well, let me tell you my story and how it changed my life.
Section 1: What is a medical clown?
A medical clown is someone who uses humor, empathy, and creativity to bring joy and comfort to patients in hospitals, especially children. They are not just regular clowns who wear funny costumes and make balloon animals. They are trained professionals who know how to adapt to different situations and needs of each patient. They use various techniques such as music, storytelling, magic, puppetry, and improvisation to create a positive atmosphere and reduce stress and anxiety.
Section 2: How did I discover medical clowning?
I was a premedical student who wanted to become a pediatrician. I loved working with kids and I wanted to help them heal. However, I also realized that being a doctor was not easy. It required a lot of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. I often felt overwhelmed by the pressure and expectations of my studies and future career. I needed something to balance my life and make me happy.
That's when I stumbled upon an article about medical clowning. It intrigued me so much that I decided to sign up for a workshop at a local hospital. There, I met some amazing people who taught me the basics of medical clowning and invited me to join them on their rounds.
Section 3: What was my first experience as a medical clown?
I was nervous and excited at the same time. I put on a red nose, a colorful wig, and a bright outfit. I followed my mentors to the pediatric ward, where we met our first patient: a little girl named Mia who had leukemia. She was lying on her bed, looking pale and sad. Her parents were sitting next to her, trying to cheer her up.
We introduced ourselves as Dr. Funnybone, Dr. Giggles, and Dr. Sparkle (that was me). We asked Mia if she wanted to play with us. She nodded shyly. We started singing a silly song about bananas and monkeys. Mia smiled and joined us. Then we showed her some magic tricks with cards and coins. She clapped and laughed. Next, we told her a story about a princess who defeated a dragon with her jokes. She listened attentively and asked questions. Finally, we gave her a balloon animal and a hug. She thanked us and said we made her day.
Section 4: How did medical clowning affect me?
I was amazed by how much joy we brought to Mia and her parents in just a few minutes. I felt a warm glow in my heart that I had never felt before. I realized that medical clowning was more than just entertainment. It was a form of healing that touched people's emotions and spirits.
I also noticed that medical clowning helped me cope with my own stress and worries. It gave me a sense of purpose and fulfillment that I lacked in my academic life. It taught me how to be more compassionate, creative, and flexible. It made me appreciate the power of humor and human connection.
Section 5: Why did I decide to become a medical clown?
After that first experience, I was hooked. I continued to volunteer as a medical clown whenever I had free time. I met many wonderful patients, families, and staff who inspired me with their courage and resilience. I learned new skills and improved my performance. I made friends with other medical clowns who shared my passion and vision.
I also realized that being a medical clown was not just a hobby or a side job for me. It was my calling. It was what made me happy and fulfilled. It was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
So I made a bold decision: I dropped out of undergraduate school and enrolled in a professional medical clowning program. It was not an easy choice. I faced a lot of criticism and doubt from my family, friends, and teachers who thought I was wasting my potential and throwing away my future. But I knew in my heart that this was the right path for me.
Section 6: What are my plans for the future?
I am currently in my final year of the medical clowning program. I have learned so much from my instructors and peers who are experts in the field. I have also gained more experience and confidence by working in different hospitals and settings. I love what I do and I can't wait to graduate and start my career as a full-time medical clown.
My dream is to travel around the world and bring laughter and hope to people who need it the most. I want to work in places where there is war, poverty, or disaster. I want to collaborate with other organizations and professionals who share my mission. I want to make a difference in the world, one smile at a time.
That's why I decided to become a medical clown. And I don't regret it for a second.
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