May 2003
Laughing Matters
“Laughter is the best medicine” goes the old saying and the idea of using laughter to aid the healing process is not new: the Americans began using clowns and comics in hospitals in the mid-1980s. The concept was a little slow to catch on in Germany, but since 1998 the KlinikClowns have been in operation here in Munich, helping children, in particular, to overcome the trauma of illness. Every KlinikClown receives special training, not only in the tools of the clown trade, such as improvisation, performing magic tricks and juggling, but also in understanding the feelings and needs of the sick people. KlinikClowns work on a voluntary basis and are funded by donations. If you are interested in knowing more about the organization either visit their open day on Odeonsplatz, May 24, starting at 11 am, or call Elisabeth Makepeace-Vondrak on (08161) 418 05 or go to
www.KlinikClowns.de.
