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Our Team - Meet Jane Darch

SickKids patients over five years of age can play video games, hang out, cook and even meet Maple Leafs players at Marnie's Lounge. Run by Jane Darch, Certified Child Life Specialist, the lounge is a vital part of a patient's therapy.

Jane Darch

Jane Darch, Child Life Specialist

"Marnie's Lounge is an important part of a child's recovery," says Jane. Recently, she worked with a young girl who had been bitten by a dog and required facial stitches. During play, she was drawing a face on a cloth doll and using it to practice the procedures she had experienced as a patient.

Jane asked if she would draw her stitches. Initially the girl refused, but then she decided to include them. "It became significant that the doll reflect what had happened to her," Jane explains." Even though the experience was physically and emotionally painful, Marnie's Lounge became a place where she could work through her hospital experience."

Jane always had an interest in working with children with special needs, and has received degrees in Child Studies and Education, and a diploma in Child Life studies. Jane is a member of the Child Life Council, an internationally recognized professional association, and editor of their newsletter. Jane is a co-facilitator for the Sick Kids Children's Council, a dynamic group of 10 patients aged 13 to 18 years that meets monthly to discuss ways to improve life for patients.

Jane has been involved with the council since its inception in 2000, and takes great pride in its accomplishments. Jane regularly arranges for Sick Kids Foundation staff to speak to the Children's Council about projects and events, and tours donors through the lounge. Jane has also participated in the Radiothon and the Night of Miracles broadcast.