Israel's 'Dream Doctors' medical clowns bring smiles to Taiwanese children after April earthquake

Situated at opposite ends of the Asian continent, Israel and Taiwan are robust democracies that continue to thrive despite external security threats. This has created special bonds between the two nations.

Taiwan experienced its strongest earthquake in 25 years. The magnitude 7.4 quake struck near Hualien, resulting in significant damage and casualties. The earthquake left at least 18 people dead and over 1,000 injured. It caused the collapse of several buildings and triggered tsunami warnings. The quake was followed by multiple aftershocks, some reaching magnitudes of up to 6.0​.

Israel's “Dream Doctors” project recently dispatched two medical clowns, Nimrod Eisenberg and Yaron Sancho Goshen, to assist in the rehabilitation of Taiwanese children who experienced trauma from the earthquake and its aftermath.

Israeli medical clowns have accumulated a lot of experience and skill in helping children recover from various forms of trauma both in Israel and abroad, in war zones such as Thailand, Haiti, Nepal, the Bahamas and Ukraine.

"We perform for children suffering from anxiety in schools in the city. Our show includes clowning around the fear of earthquakes and coping methods in a funny and emotional release way. The place is fascinating, and the work is moving. There is a strong connection between the Taiwanese and the life situation of Israelis, against the backdrop of the difficult reality of constant uncertainty and endless fears," Eisenberg explained.

While the role of medical clowns is to bring joy and laughter to children, on a deeper level, they are part of a wider mental health profession, cooperating with psychologists and social workers to boost the children’s morale and resilience.

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs facilitated the visit of the medical clowns in cooperation with the Israeli diplomatic mission in Taiwan. Maya Yaron, the head of the Israeli delegation in Taiwan, noted that Taiwan has been very supportive of Israel following the Oct. 7 attack.

"For many months, the Israeli delegation in Taipei has been engaged in intensive public relations work and activities related to the war against Hamas. Taiwan was one of the first to express support for Israel and stand by us after October 7," Yaron said.

"Since last month's major earthquake, we sought to contribute to Taiwan and show solidarity with the people of Hualien County who were directly affected by the earthquake. It was clear to us that even in times of war, it is important for the State of Israel to assist its friends around the world and, therefore we chose to bring the extraordinary delegation of medical clowns, hoping that through laughter and humor, the Taiwanese can return to the optimism and joy of life that characterizes them," Yaron affirmed.

Taiwan's Ambassador to Israel Abby Ya-ping Lee emphasized that Taiwan was proud to be among the first nations to support the embattled Jewish state following the Hamas attack. The Taiwan Embassy in Israel has donated $70,000 to Israeli soldiers and Israeli families in need.

She said that Israel values its friendship with the international community and wants to be a part of helping nations recover from devastating circumstances.

"I take immense pride in Taiwan's swift expression of solidarity and condolences for the tragic loss of life in Israel. Today, on behalf of the Taiwanese people and government, I am honored to announce our partnership with Pitchon-Lev. It exemplifies Taiwan's commitment to assisting those in need, regardless of their background, beliefs, or gender," Lee said.