Trick or Treat at KKH

1 November 2008

Twenty seven Duke-NUS GMS students dressed as everything from Count Dracula to chocolate gathered at KK Women's and Children's Hospital today.

The year I and II students were at KKH to bring the fun of Halloween, a popular American holiday that is equal parts spookiness and equal parts spoof, to the patients and staff of the hospital. At 1pm, the students started going around eight wards, led by Caroline Kong, the hospital's volunteer coordinator. They visited patients from bed to bed and also stationed themselves at the play areas of the wards. KKH's patients, who range in age from the newly born to adolescents, were entertained by the various activities organized by Duke-NUS students. The students face-painted, sculpted balloons, played board games and used hand puppets to tell stories. They also distributed treats, in modified "trick or treat" fashion, to the children. The gifts were varied and included different party sets, stationary, hats, games and toys.

Patients were piqued by the costumes worn by Duke-NUS students. Students found themselves asked to pose for pictures with children and their parents. Students' costumes were diverse and interesting; there were two pirates, a samurai warrior, three angels, two fairies, two devils, two karate kids, a kimono lady, a clown, a duck, M&M chocolates, a vampire couple, a gypsy, a clown, Superman, Little Red Riding Hood, Harry Potter and Michael Jackson. The duck mascot, worn by MSI, Nico Oey, was particularly popular among the children.

The event ended at 3pm. Duke-NUS students enjoyed the event tremendously and are currently planning to return to celebrate Christmas with KKH patients later this year.