When hospital clown Stella visits the pediatric ward at Hvidovre Hospital, North Zealand Hospital, or the Bodil Eskesen Center (Rigshospitalet), she brings humor, warmth, and a special ability to connect with children on their level. With simple magic tricks, balloon animals, and quiet companionship, she creates a moment of respite in a daily life marked by illness and medical tests.

– A hospital stay is often associated with anxiety and worry. One of the most important things is to give the child small victories. In the hospital, there are many situations where the child loses control. When they suddenly manage to perform a magic trick or help Stella, it can give them the feeling that they can do something again, says Charlotte Nefer, also known as Stella.

Charlotte Nefer is a freelance hospital clown and has been working in pediatric wards in the Copenhagen area for 23 years. As a professional actress and psychotherapist, she interacts with children using humor, empathy, and a special ability to connect with them—even when illness, anxiety, and pain are overwhelming.

“It can feel scary, for example, to have a blood test. In these situations, I can help build a bridge between the child and the staff by letting the child know that they’re kind and that they want to help the child feel better,” says Charlotte Nefer.

– I’m also someone the child can relate to. If there’s a child who doesn’t want to take their medicine, I might say, “I don’t want to take my medicine either,” while holding it in a glass. That way, the child’s feelings are acknowledged, and most of the time, Stella and the child end up agreeing that it’s best to take the medicine after all.

Charlotte Nefer knows firsthand what it’s like to be the mother of a child who is hospitalized. When her son was seven years old, he underwent the first of two major back surgeries.

– I saw a TV show about a hospital clown, and I could see how much of a difference her presence made to the hospitalized children. Suddenly, I realized that this was the path I was meant to take. Stella isn’t just a job—it’s my passion. I’ve put my heart and soul into Stella every time I’ve put on that red nose, and I can see that I’m making a difference for the children, she says with a smile.

After her son’s first surgery, she began seeking grants and contacted various hospitals. In January 2003, Stella made her debut at North Zealand Hospital, and since then, thousands of children have gotten to know this sweet and empathetic hospital clown.

“For me, it’s important to bring my core values to my interactions with the children—empathy, humility, respect, and good judgment,” says Charlotte Nefer.

Every week, she visits hospitalized children and their families, bringing a little joy to their otherwise difficult daily lives.

“I try to create positive memories that the children can take with them when they’re discharged from the hospital,” says Charlotte Nefer.

Experiences from both families and healthcare professionals show that the presence of a hospital clown can reduce anxiety, make medical examinations easier, and provide a greater sense of security for both children and parents.

– When a child is hospitalized, the world can suddenly feel overwhelming. Hospital clown Stella helps create small moments of joy, comfort, and connection—and that can make a big difference during a difficult time. That’s why we’re happy to support her work, says Margit Andersen, co-founder of the foundation.