Children with an ocular prosthesis

Going to the hospital or to the ocular prosthesis specialist can be a little scary. Maybe you don’t know exactly what’s going to happen yet, or you’re feeling nervous. That’s totally normal! It might help if you know a little bit about what to expect. Your mom or dad can help you with that, because they know you very well and know how to comfort and reassure you. There’s also a medical educational specialist at the hospital. This is someone who has a lot of experience helping children during their stay in the hospital.

Read more tips for when you have to go to the hospital

“Why am I sometimes scared at the doctor’s office or the ocularist’s?” and “Why do I act differently when I’m scared?” It’s perfectly normal to be scared sometimes. When you’re scared, you might act differently than you do at home or at school, and that’s okay. In this video, Bas explains what happens in your brain when you’re scared. He also shows how he—and you, too—can take control of that fear. Bas used to be afraid, but now he no longer lets himself get carried away by the stress caused by “Mr. André.” Do you want to know who Bas and “Mr. André” are and how you, too, can become less afraid? Then be sure to watch the video above!

What can you do to make sure people listen to you carefully when you have to see a doctor or an ocular prosthesis maker? Treatments, tests, or exams can be pretty nerve-wracking. That’s why it’s important for people to listen to you carefully and figure out what you need. Keep this in mind:

• You have the right to a clear explanation of what is going to happen.
• You’re always welcome to ask questions.
• Your opinion matters. You can work with the doctor to consider your options and make a decision.

This video was made for children and their parents. You’ll learn how pain works and how you can gain more control over your body and your feelings—for example, when you get a shot or have an eye exam. The video offers helpful tips that can assist you. You’ll also see how your mom and dad can help you.

At our annual Family Day, there’s a super fun program for kids. You can play, have fun, and meet new friends. Feel free to bring your dad, mom, little brother, little sister, grandpa, and grandma. Everyone is welcome! We always pick a fun place for Family Day. It’s usually held in the spring. We’ve been to Amersfoort Zoo and the GeoFort before.

There’s also a special program for your (grand)parents. They can attend presentations and meet other (grand)parents. Check our calendar for this year’s date.

The Hospital Hero app is an app that helps kids when they have to go to the hospital. Imagine you’re a little nervous about going to the doctor or the hospital. The app turns you into a kind of superhero during your visit. Here’s how it works:

• The app explains what happens at the hospital so you won’t be surprised.
• You can play games about doctors, nurses, and medical equipment.
• You’ll get tips on how to be less afraid and be brave.
• Sometimes you can earn points or rewards, just like a real hero.

More info: www.hospitalhero.nl

When Milan was a baby, he was diagnosed with cancer in his eye. This disease is called retinoblastoma. So he was very young when he received an eye prosthesis. In this video, he and his parents talk about it.

It can take some getting used to, but you can still learn, play, and have fun at school. With a few helpful tips, school will be more enjoyable and easier.

My Special Eye – Maria Gomez-Lozano
Bruno is 6 years old and has many qualities that make him special. For example, he’s a fantastic big brother, he’s good at soccer, he’s a great team player, he loves nature, and he really enjoys drawing animals. And, oh yes, he also has a special eye—an ocular prosthesis. More info….

The Ophthalmologist – Liesbet Slegers
Some people don’t see very well. That’s perfectly fine. An ophthalmologist is a doctor who knows a lot about eyes and helps both children and adults see better. At the office, the ophthalmologist has all kinds of special tools to examine your eyes. It doesn’t hurt and is often pretty interesting! After examining your eyes, the ophthalmologist will tell you what can help you see better. Sometimes you’ll need to do some eye exercises. And very often, a nice, cool, or funny pair of glasses helps. Then you’ll be able to see everything around you clearly again. More info…

Putting in your own eye prosthesis for the first time can be pretty nerve-wracking. This was the first time Minke had done this.