"With KiKli Fit, bring smiles and strength back to children with cancer thanks to fun, adapted physical exercise."
"Because moving is already healing."
In order to better manage the many side and late effects (e.g. on physical and mental health, pain, fatigue, etc.) associated with illness and treatment, and to promote physical and mental health, the "KiKli Fit" (Kinderklinik Fit) project was set up at Berne University Hospital, at the request of patients and hospital staff.
This project is a collaboration between the ISPW (Institute of Sports Science) and the Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology at the University Hospital of Berne.
The project also involves the children's family and friends, as well as hospital staff.
Since March 2023, "KiKli Fit" has been offering playful, exercise-promoting daily activities in the pediatric oncology intensive care unit, supervised by a physical activity therapist, with the aim of reducing the secondary and late effects of cancer and its therapy on physical and mental health.
In November 2024, the effect of physical activity therapy on physical and mental health is to be investigated in a multi-center study at the University Hospital Bern (Inselspital) and the University Children's Hospital Basel (UKBB) over three years, in the Pediatric Oncology Intensive Care Unit.
The intervention will consist of a physical activity program with cognitive elements, in a fun way and adapted to the specific needs of children and teenagers.
In addition, physical activity counseling will be offered to help patients reintegrate into sports clubs, physical education and daily physical activities with friends and family, during maintenance therapy or follow-up.
You can follow the different activities on their Instagram page.
This magnificent project was supported by the Swiss Federal Office of Sport, the University of Berne and Zoé4life, which provided financial backing to the tune of CHF 167,693 over 3 years.
