The newly opened space is an expansion of the existing Disney Reef play area and is designed as a multi-sensory environment inspired by characters from "Moana" and "Lilo & Stitch." The initiative aims to provide seriously ill children, who are undergoing treatment at GOSH, with moments of childhood joy and escape amidst their medical care. The hospital treats children with rare and complex medical conditions from across the UK and internationally, and the play space has been developed with accessibility and a wide range of needs at its forefront.

The design process involved input from the hospital's Play team, current and former GOSH patients, parents, hospital experts, and Disney designers. Key features of the interactive play space include a water experience that allows children to manipulate water in a manner reminiscent of Moana. The area is fully accessible for wheelchairs and hospital beds. Additionally, it incorporates a bespoke soundscape, integrated Braille for visually impaired children, and a dynamic light system featuring a digital sun that adjusts in real-time. The lighting and sound levels are also customizable to accommodate varying sensory needs.

At the opening event, Johnson and Laga’aia met 10-year-old GOSH patient Bella and her sister Luna. Bella had undergone life-saving brain tumor surgery at age four and faced significant recovery challenges. Her mother, Sophie, shared that Bella developed a profound connection with "Moana," often singing songs from the movie, which Sophie credits with aiding Bella's speech recovery. "It was so special to see Bella meet the characters from the film that meant so much to her during her recovery," Sophie stated. "I honestly don’t think we’ll ever be able to top today, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we’ll never forget."

Deborah Armstrong, Senior Vice President, Disney Advertising EMEA & Country Manager UK & Ireland, emphasized Disney's commitment to supporting children. "Children need a space where they can just be kids, even in the toughest moments, and this new space helps make that possible," Armstrong said. "At Disney, we’re incredibly proud of our decades-long collaboration with GOSH Charity, and this inclusive, immersive environment is the latest way we’re bringing the magic of Disney to children and families who need it most. The exceptional attention to detail reflects the care and dedication of teams across our organisations, and its accessible design ensures we can bring comfort, joy and a sense of escape to even more children, regardless of their physical or sensory needs."

Louise Parkes, Chief Executive of GOSH Charity, highlighted the importance of play in a child's recovery and development. "GOSH Charity exists to ensure seriously ill children get the best chance and the best childhood possible, and thanks to Disney’s generosity and the expertise of our charity-funded Play team this wonderful new space will help more children at GOSH to experience the joyful moments of play that are so important in their formative years," Parkes commented. "It’s a brilliant example of what can be achieved through the longstanding partnership between GOSH Charity and Disney, and we’re incredibly grateful for their continued support."

The Disney Reef initiative is dedicated to the children and young people of GOSH and the Young People’s Forum (YPF), a group of GOSH patients and siblings whose input was instrumental in shaping the patient experience and the development of the play space. The Disney Reef also acknowledges Bob Iger, former Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, under whom Disney contributed over $12 million to GOSH Charity. This funding supported projects including the creation of a MediCinema theatre and the development of new inclusive sensory play spaces, expanding the original Disney Reef.

Disney's relationship with Great Ormond Street Hospital dates back to 1951, when Walt Disney first visited the institution. Over the decades, the partnership with GOSH Charity has evolved into a key component of Disney's commitment to supporting children facing serious illness. This commitment is demonstrated through ongoing investments in patient-focused environments designed to bring comfort and joy through beloved characters.

As part of its global social purpose programs, which have supported children and communities for over 100 years, Disney's "Moments That Matter" program works with healthcare experts and charity partners across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This program aims to bring joy, comfort, and togetherness to children experiencing serious illness or isolation, helping to alleviate anxiety and foster emotional strength during times of stress and uncertainty.

Featured names

• Dwayne Johnson
• Catherine Laga
• Great Ormond
• Street Hospital
• The Walt Disney
• The Disney Reef
• Deborah Armstrong
• Disney Advertising
• Country Manager
• Louise Parkes
• Chief Executive
• The Disney Reef
• Young People
• The Walt Disney
• Disney Moments
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