IT is the younger generation who have the energy and capacity to achieve the most noble goals in our society. The hope of a better tomorrow lies with hard-working, strong-willed, and God-fearing people. That is the mission statement of a group of pro-active mothers who started a youth summer camp for boys that they called Athar Alshabab. One mother, Reema Engawi, said: “Athar is an Arabic word that means mark or effect. We believe that every individual should leave a positive mark on his/her society, by improving the community, helping others, and bringing good everywhere.” Another active mother, Omama Serawan, added, “We want to complement what our boys are learning in the common programs at the mosques. They have been memorizing surahs from the Holy Qur'an but not properly understanding its meanings and teachings. We are explaining the meanings and showing them how to apply the Holy Qur'an's principles in their daily lives through their conduct, behavior, by assisting those in need, and even how they communicate with others.” The field trips for this youth group are not the typical entertainment for teenage boys. Their most recent field trip was a visit to the in-patient ward at the International Medical Center. The plan was to bring some summer fun to the children who are too sick to leave the hospital. The staff at the International Medical Center welcomed the idea and were extremely helpful in making the necessary arrangements for this party. The volunteer group decorated the family waiting lounge on the pediatric floor with lavender, yellow, and sky blue balloons. The little patients were invited into the lounge with their parents and siblings, and some were brought in on wheelchairs to see what surprises lay ahead. “This was a very nice idea and is beneficial to our patients. Some of them cannot move properly or play like other kids, so this will entertain them while they are getting well. We hope to host events like this more often in the future,” the head nurse of the in-patient pediatric department, Emelita Hafalla, told the Saudi Gazette. The fun-packed afternoon began with the recitation of verses from the Holy Qur'an by a member of the volunteer team. Next the volunteer boys performed a funny play that made the small patients giggle with delight. After the play a professional entertainer put on a magic show. Joy and awe were evident on the faces of each little one as the magician pulled off one astonishing trick after another. Everyone had a good time, including the patients, parents, volunteers, nurses, and physicians. Such activities for unwell children are not only a great way to dispel boredom, but may even be therapeutic. Laughter may be the best medicine. Studies conducted by the psychiatrist at Stanford University, Dr. William F. Fry, demonstrate that laughter increases respiratory activity, oxygen uptake, and muscular activity, and it triggers the release of endorphins in the brain. Endorphins provide a sense of relaxation and well-being and diminish depression and the perception of pain. Evidence shows that laughter can enhance the body's natural immune response. In simpler terms, laughing is good for your mind and body! Each patient received attractively wrapped sweets and dates and a story book from the team of Athar Alshabab. The management of Fuddruckers restaurant also gave away gift vouchers worth SR100 to be used at Toys R Us. With tears in her eyes, the mother of a 7-year-old patient, Wasan Al-Muhayawi, said: “You cannot imagine how much Wasan enjoyed this party. She has had knee surgery and she was so bored and upset all day. This group and the nurses really did a wonderful job.” __
