FROM THE HOSPITAL TO THE DEEP BLUE SEA

Drifting away, setting sails, going out to sea… 

Every year, the catamaran called SOURIRE A LA VIE sets sails for a crossing of the mediterranean with 8 or 9 children on board, either undergoing treatment or in remission. Between Marseille and Corsica these adventures across the sea offer a delicious break from daily routine.

We are far from the hospital and yet, all we need is here : doctor, nursing, blood samples, medical watch. And many other things : friends, a fantastic 17m catamaran, deep blue sea, whales, dolphins… Unique moments of freedom and endless horizons. These sails give children an opportunity to fuel up on good times and regain stamina.

Children learn to sail, cook, play, swim. They learn to pay attention to natural elements like water. They learn about life at sea and the necessity to keep the oceans clean. They learn how to eat healthier, protect themselves from the sun, and exercise daily. At night, they let themselves be caught up by the sky. Endless sea and Corsica’s wilderness soon became their favorite playground.

« Thanks a lot for all you give to our children. Not only travels but also the incredible energy you give them, the will to fight on and something good happening in their life. Your work can be seen through them. You give them a wonderful childhood and you manage to make them live the life of a child in spite of the disease. The smile and the look on their face when they come back tells it all about the intensity of the moments you share with them. Thanks a million ! » Pascale, mother of a sick child.