About
A special day at the zoo
Children with rare diseases and their families deal with challenges that most families never face. Every day brings new uncertainties and questions, making life very intense. That’s why the Zeldzame Ziekten Fonds (rare diseases fund, ZZF), with support from the foundation, organises a special day at Ouwehands Zoo in Rhenen every year. This day offers families a break, a distraction and, most importantly, recognition. More than 300 families meet others in similar situations, share experiences and enjoy a fun day together. Everyone can see and feel the bond that is created.
As a result, the annual patient contact day at Ouwehands Zoo is always a huge success. The spectacular sea lion show produces plenty of laughs from the audience, as sea lions entertain young and old alike with lively tricks. Families enjoy the animals at their own pace, relax with a tasty lunch on the terrace and share stories with others. For some it is a reunion, for others a first introduction. But every encounter is valuable. Contacts are made on the day that help families feel less isolated.
“Unfortunately, reality is unpredictable for many people. Together, we can build each other up and give people with rare diseases hope for the future. We are glad that we can give these families an enjoyable day out during the patient contact day at Ouwehands Zoo.” – John Fentener van Vlissingen
The Zeldzame Ziekten Fonds was set up in 2005 and is doing impressive work. The organisation funds scientific research into rare diseases; research that is constantly improving our understanding of these diseases and helping to develop new treatment options. At the same time, the ZZF is committed to raising awareness of rare diseases within Dutch society. While adequate resources are often available for well-known diseases, people with rare diseases are in many cases still overlooked. This is precisely what the ZZF wants to change, because everyone has the right to appropriate care and support.
The ZZF’s mission is therefore clear: to improve lives by funding research and facilitating valuable interaction with fellow patients. This approach ensures that people with rare diseases not only receive better care and treatments, but also greater recognition and understanding from society.
