#Japan #Kurashiki #Shine On Kids #Beads of Courage #Tokiwa Group

Introduction of 'Beads of Courage' in Japan

In a remarkable step towards enhancing pediatric care, the art therapy program known as 'Beads of Courage' has been newly introduced by Tokiwa Medical Corporation and Kurashiki Central Hospital in Japan. This innovative initiative aims to provide emotional support to children battling severe illnesses such as cancer, alongside their families. The non-profit organization Shine On! Kids, led by director Kimberly Forsythe, has empowered these institutions by providing them with the necessary framework for implementing this therapeutic approach.

Understanding Beads of Courage

Developed in the United States, the Beads of Courage program is recognized globally in various hospitals as a standard treatment for young patients. It allows children to create a visual representation of their treatment journey by threading glass beads of different colors, each representing a specific medical event. For instance, a red bead might signify a blood transfusion, while a bead with a facial representation could symbolize the loss of hair due to treatment. With support from healthcare staff known as 'Bead Ambassadors', children can engage in meaningful conversations while creating their unique bead strand.

This process not only offers a therapeutic outlet but also assists children in reflecting on their experiences. It reinforces feelings of courage and hope, encouraging them to gain confidence in their own lives. By turning their challenges into a tangible artistic expression, children develop a greater self-awareness and can communicate their experiences to those around them.

The Role of Tokiwa Medical Corporation

Operating primarily in Tokyo and Saitama, Tokiwa Medical Corporation specializes in home healthcare and pediatric home medical services. Their collaboration with hospitals implementing the Beads of Courage program aims to create a communication channel for children under palliative care, allowing them and their families to express their feelings and receive grief support through creative therapy. By utilizing this program, Tokiwa hopes to foster a nurturing environment for both the patients and their families.

Kurashiki Central Hospital's Commitment

In 2023, Kurashiki Central Hospital participated in a trial for an auxiliary program designed to support children with congenital heart diseases. Funded by the Marubeni Foundation, this program laid the groundwork for the subsequent formal adoption of the Beads of Courage initiative specifically for pediatric oncology cases. The ultimate goal is to potentially expand the program further to include support for children suffering from heart diseases.

As a result, with both Tokiwa Medical Corporation and Kurashiki Central Hospital now implementing this transformative therapy, the Beads of Courage program will extend to a total of 32 facilities across Japan, enhancing the well-being of numerous children and their families.

Additional Information

Shine On! Kids offers various programs aimed at supporting children with cancer and severe illnesses, including the Hospital Facility Dog® program, community support for pediatric cancer survivors, and online mental health resources. Since its establishment in 2006, the organization has expanded its reach, providing essential services in 34 hospitals across Japan as of September 2025.

For more details about the Beads of Courage program, including a visual overview, you can visit this link. This initiative not only generates hope and resilience among young patients but also cultivates a supportive community that caters to their unique emotional and psychological needs in the face of difficult circumstances.