The Theodora Foundation was established in Switzerland in 1993 by the brothers André and Jan Poulie to support the wellbeing of children in hospitals, specialist care centres for children with disabilities and, more recently, a children's hospice. Our specially trained Giggle Doctor visits open a window into a child’s imagination, providing moments of joy, comfort, and light-heartedness.

The professional artists work closely with doctors and nursing or care staff and also support staff in particularly challenging situations. The Foundation offers seven programmes:  

•	Giggle Doctors, Operation Dream and Emergency Giggles for children in hospital and Planet of Dreams for children in the children’s hospice
•	Mr and Ms Dream and the Little Orchestra for the Senses for children with disabilities
•	The Lil’ Champs for children with obesity who are following a course of therapy

The Foundation is recognised as serving the public interest. It finances its activities exclusively through donations and corporate partnerships and does not receive any state subsidies.

As a founding member of the European Federation of Healthcare Clown Organizations (EFHCO), the Foundation adheres to high quality standards, which are subject to regular review. To this end, it collaborates with renowned training institutions including the La Source School of Nursing and the Accademia Dimitri. These partnerships enable the highest possible quality to be ensured in the training and further education given to the Giggle Doctors.

Theodora Foundation

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