Advent calendars for psychiatric wards in place thanks to funding from Sol og Strand
Although December is still some time away, the PakkekalenderAUH association is well underway with preparations for the traditional advent calendar, which brings Christmas cheer to patients in the psychiatric wards at Aarhus University Hospital.
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2024
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The Advent Calendar Association AUH
And the news that the Sol og Strand Foundation, Sol og Strand Margit and Kjeld, has supported the project with a donation of 10,000 kroner has been met with great joy by the association.
"We are very grateful—with this donation, we will be able to buy candy and snacks for the many gift packages we need to put together," says Susanne Holgaard, mother of 45-year-old Tina Kvist, who initiated the association.
The daughter, who has multiple diagnoses and mental health challenges, has been ill since she was around 18 years old—and has been admitted to the psychiatric ward several times—and is currently also in the psychiatric ward.
One of the times she was hospitalized was on Christmas Eve, which led Tina Kvist to think that something could be done to bring Christmas cheer in the midst of a sad time.
"My husband and I decided to help Tina realize this project because it is a good initiative that will make many people happy," says Susanne Holgaard.
The first calendars were produced in 2017, and in 2022 the association PakkekalenderAUH was established. The association has teamed up with 110 women and one man who love to knit and volunteer their time to knit socks, hats, scarves, etc. The packages also contain Christmas treats, games, writing materials, and hygiene products—including a toothbrush and toothpaste in every bag.
"Many people are admitted to hospital without having packed for a stay, which is why personal care products are in high demand," says Susanne Holgaard.
A total of 240 calendar gifts must be made for ten calendars, which will be distributed to ten psychiatric wards. In connection with the ward's morning or evening meeting, a lottery will be held among those attending the meetings.
There are some busy months ahead before the advent calendars are handed over to the psychiatric wards in November. While Susanne and her husband wrap the gifts, their daughter makes sure that there is nothing among the gifts that the patients could use to harm themselves.
"I can see how she gets renewed energy, even when she is feeling really down. There are many people who appreciate her efforts, and that means a lot to her. By helping others, she helps herself," says Susanne Holgaard.