Young people undergoing cancer treatment at Glasgow Children’s Hospital can continue to experience moments of joy and emotional support during their hospital stays, thanks to the work of Team Jak Foundation.
Founded by 15-year-old Jak Trueman, the charity was inspired by his own experience of cancer before he sadly passed away. It operates across Scotland through Jak’s Den HQ in Livingston, Jak’s Den Aberdeen, and pop-up dens in Fife and Glasgow.
Jak wanted to ensure no one felt alone on their cancer journey. In his memory, Team Jak provides emotional, social and practical care to children and young people with cancer and related illnesses, as well as their families, friends and those who are bereaved.
In Glasgow, Team Jak’s staff visit the Schiehallion Ward at the city’s Children’s Hospital every week. They run pop-up den activities that offer a safe space for play, creativity and companionship, helping to reduce the fear and isolation that often comes with treatment.
As well as helping young cancer patients, these sessions provide much-needed respite for parents and carers, allowing them to take a break and shake off the feeling of isolation from spending so much time on the ward.
The charity’s work has been supported by a £1,000 donation from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust.
Allison Barr, Chief Executive of Team Jak Foundation, described the impact of the donation, saying:
“We're very grateful to the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust for supporting our work in the Schiehallion Ward in Glasgow. This funding will help our team to create a fun element for children and young people in hospital receiving cancer treatment through crafts, games and play at the clinic, in day care, and on the ward - letting childhood happen despite the medical interventions, creating a safe space for play.”
Gerry Facenna, founder and Chair of Allied Vehicles Group, said:
“Every family is affected by cancer - my own included - and cancer treatment is something nobody should have to go through alone, especially at a very young age. We're proud to support Team Jak's fantastic work in making such difficult times a little bit brighter for young cancer patients and their families in Glasgow.”
