A sensory bus created by an Ayrshire dad as a heartwarming tribute to his six-year-old daughter Aoife who died from a brain tumour has arrived at Silverburn for the half term holidays.
Michael Kidd created Aoife’s Sensory Bus, operated by Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, to give children and young people who find busy or noisy environments overwhelming a place to unwind and explore at their own pace.
Inside the bus, youngsters can discover a musical touch wall, a colour column, an interactive mood light and a musical hand wall.
The sensory bus’s visit to Silverburn falls during Sensory Awareness Month, which runs throughout October to raise understanding of sensory processing differences.
Aoife was diagnosed with a brain tumour at just 16 months old and went through several surgeries, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and a clinical trial, which left her with developmental delay and additional support needs. She sadly passed away in 2019, aged six.
While she was having physiotherapy at Yorkhill Hospital after her first operation, Aoife’s dad Michael saw first-hand how a sensory room helped her relax and focus during an incredibly difficult time.
He said: “The bus aims to provide a safe and welcoming space where children can relax, have fun and experience sensory stimulation. It can also offer a positive distraction from medical tests, assessments and appointments, helping to make difficult experiences a little easier.
“What started with Aoife’s journey has become a way of carrying her memory forward and making a difference to the lives of many other children and families.”
William McGowan-Smith, Head of Partnerships & Business Development at Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “We are delighted to bring Aoife’s Sensory Bus to Silverburn for the school holidays. It’s the latest activity in our long-standing partnership, following the fantastic fun of Flamingo Beach in the summer, and ahead of the excitement of Christmas.
“The sensory equipment in the bus helps children manage their emotions and can help to reduce anxiety, in a similar way to our sensory rooms and equipment at the hospital. We’re grateful to everyone who visits the bus for generously supporting our young patients.”
Diarmuid Donohoe, General Manager at Silverburn, said: “The school holidays are one of our busiest times and we want Silverburn to be somewhere every family can come, take a breather and enjoy their day, and Aoife’s Sensory Bus gives children a calm space to do exactly that.
“Michael has turned something unimaginably hard into a way of helping other families, and it’s a privilege to host the bus at Silverburn. I’m sure lots of local children will enjoy spending time on board over the holidays.”
The bus is free to use and will be located just outside the centre, near the entrance next to Tesco, until Monday 19th October. Donations to Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity are welcome.