Returning to sports

The step toward joining a sports club after childhood cancer can feel significant for both the child and their parents. Pediatric physical therapists at the Máxima Center and in primary care can provide guidance in this process. In addition, the Esther Vergeer Foundation can also offer support.

There are several organizations that help children with a disability or after illness find a suitable sport.

For example, Uniek Sporten supports children and adults with a disability in finding an appropriate sport. The platform offers tailored advice, an overview of sports clubs, and support in obtaining adapted sports equipment. The goal is to give everyone, regardless of physical or mental limitations, the opportunity to stay active.

In addition, the sports clinic of the Esther Vergeer Foundation supports children from the Princess Máxima Center with a physical disability in finding a new sports club. Consultants at this sports clinic advise and guide children with a physical disability in choosing the most suitable sport and sports club. Together with the pediatric physical therapist from the Máxima Center, they explore which sport best matches the child’s interests and abilities.

These sports clinics are available at all academic children’s hospitals in the Netherlands and at the Sint Maartenskliniek. As a (pediatric) physical therapist affiliated with KinderOncoNet, you can refer children and parents to this sports clinic.