A Pathway To Medicine!: Friday Fun!

Since 2009 I have been a volunteer for an event called Friday fun. It is hosted at a local youth club every other week and is for children up to the age of 25 who have any form of disability, from learning difficulties to Down’s syndrome. The club currently works with around 50 members and I have found it an incredible experience so far. We try to provide the children with different activities such as table tennis and ensure that they always look forward to the event! As well as their enjoyment, the club also develops member’s life skills which are of vital importance. I have found whilst attending the events that I have also improved some of my skills such as communication and listening which is a great bonus considering I have enjoyed my time there so much! One thing I have really learned to appreciate amongst the children is the numerous different skills and abilities they all have in completely different areas! I have learnt that they are all individuals, and obviously have a right to be treated the same way as anyone else. The first Friday Fun of 2012 was a great success and I am sure this will continue throughout the year! One of the highlights of my night was working with several of the children on covering a song using the instruments available to us, while getting everyone as involved as possible. This was something I had not previously done and found it very interesting. The youth club provides a number of opportunities that the children may not have at home, and the wide range of instruments and music production equipment they used can illustrate this point. Anyway this is my first post so cheers for reading!

A point to note from one article I have read in the student BMJ is that "people with disabilities have a higher prevalence of health problems than the general population, and are therefore more likely to spend time in hospital." So I would definitely recommend seeking out any similar opportunities that you can find to any potential medical students! You will definitely not regret it and are sure to develop communication skills which will come into use later in your careers!
Thanks again!
Sam