Novartis Korea said it held the seventh emotional support program, CHEERYOU, for patients with rare and intractable diseases in collaboration with the Korean Organization for Rare Diseases (KORD) at the Pine Valley Glamping Site in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province, last Friday.
The CHEERYOU campaign, a flagship corporate social responsibility initiative of Novartis Korea, aims to emotionally uplift and support patients and families grappling with the stress and challenges of prolonged treatment for rare and intractable diseases.
Since its inception in 2017, the campaign has consistently provided comfort to patients and their families. Celebrating its seventh year, the program featured a healing camp named Forest of CHEERYOU, packed with lectures, performances, recreational activities, and do-it-yourself (DIY) sessions.
The event began with comedian Kim Si-duk delivering a message of hope. Kim had to take a break from his career after being diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, a rare and intractable disease.
Sharing his personal journey, he resonated deeply with the attendees and offered much-needed solace.
Subsequent activities included magic shows and recreations stimulating all senses and a healing program to craft personal healing topiaries using eco-friendly materials.
"Patients and families living with rare and incurable diseases are often physically and mentally exhausted due to restrictions on outdoor activities, social stigma, and other challenges they have to overcome," said Lee Young-ran, one of the guardians of a participating patient. "Through participating in this healing program, I could laugh and enjoy the outdoors with my family and build happy memories."
"For patients with rare and incurable diseases, something as simple as a night at a campground with great food and entertainment is something that does not come often," KORD Chairman Kim Jae-hak said. "We are pleased that patients and their made unforgettable memories through this healing program, and we ask for everyone's interest and support in providing more opportunities for patients and their families."
Novartis Korea General Manager Yoo Byung-jae, also said, "Over the years, we have received many messages from participants expressing their gratitude and appreciation for the CHEERYOU program, which has also been a rewarding experience for Novartis employees."
Novartis will continue to provide innovative medicines and patient support programs for patients and their families who are overcoming many challenges in their fight against disease."