The Psycho-Spiritual Journey of the Dying Child… and Beyond
Experts and families call for the creation of Malta’s first children’s hospice
Burmarrad, Malta – 11/10/2024
The Karl Vella Foundation (KVF) recently hosted a powerful and thought-provoking conference titled “The Psycho-Spiritual Journey of the Dying Child… and Beyond.” The event brought together paediatric specialists, psychologists, spiritual leaders, and bereaved parents to explore the medical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of paediatric palliative care.
Experts Share Holistic Perspectives
Among the conference speakers were Dr. Hermione Andrejevic, Malta’s only paediatric palliative care specialist; Ms. Pamela Gray and Rev. Amanda Reid from CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland); and Ms. Gabriella Farrugia Cassar, Senior Clinical Psychologist at Mater Dei Hospital.
Their presentations covered a range of essential topics, including:
- What is Paediatric Palliative Care, and Why Does it Matter
- Caring for the Dying Child
- Understanding the Psychological Needs of the Dying Child’s Family Members
- The Spiritual Journey of the Dying Child and Their Family
All speakers agreed that true paediatric palliative care must provide holistic, individualized support—beginning at diagnosis and continuing beyond the child’s passing.
Spiritual and Emotional Support at the Core
Fr. Martin Micallef addressed the spiritual dimension of paediatric palliative care, noting that parents often experience profound spiritual crises. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that families receive emotional and spiritual accompaniment throughout this painful journey.
Parents Share Their Stories
Four mothers — Ms. Rodianne Chetcuti, Ms. Claudette Attard, Ms. Thelma Desira, and Ms. Denise Spinoche — shared deeply personal accounts of caring for their terminally ill children. Their experiences ranged from creating cherished memories at home to enduring long hospital stays.
They spoke movingly about the profound transformation that follows the loss of a child — the feeling of a “before” and “after,” the need to rebuild identity, and the importance of compassionate, continuous support. Their collective dream: to see the establishment of a dedicated children’s hospice in Malta, separate from hospitals and adult care settings, staffed by specialized paediatric palliative professionals.
Key Messages from the Conference
Throughout the event, several recurring themes emerged:
- Every dying child has a voice, and their wishes must be heard and respected.
- Caregivers should focus on what the child can do, not only on their limitations.
- Honest communication with children fosters trust and peace.
- The grief of siblings and extended family must not be overlooked; they too need support and space to say goodbye.
KVF’s Commitment to the Future
Closing the conference, Ms. Claire Chircop, Co-Founder and Director of KVF, expressed gratitude to all speakers, parents, and participants. She announced that KVF has begun feasibility studies to assess the possibility of establishing a children’s hospice in collaboration with the government.
“This conference has shown that paediatric palliative care is not only about managing pain or illness — it’s about dignity, love, and ensuring that no child or family walks this path alone,” said Ms. Chircop.
The Event was sponsored by db Foundation, Carisma, Browns, Insynk Collective, MITA Cares and Suiga Bar. Participants were given a Certificate of Attendance consisting of 7 CPD hours, issued in collaboration with the European Institute for Professional Development.
About Karl Vella Foundation (KVF)
The Karl Vella Foundation provides emotional, psychological, and educational support to families facing serious illness or loss. Through its programmes and advocacy work, KVF strives to ensure that every family in Malta receives compassionate, holistic care in times of great difficulty.
Contact Information
Karl Vella Foundation (KVF)
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +356 21237928
Website: www.karlvellafoundation.org
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