The good old days and today of DKCH

Who is the Duchess of Kent?

Katharine, the Duchess of Kent, a member of the British Royal Family, is now 91 years old. Born into the nobility, she married the Duke of Kent in 1961. The Duchess visited the DKCH three times in 1970, 1982 and 1991 respectively. At the time of her initial visit in February 1970, the hospital was known as the “Sandy Bay Children’s Orthopaedic Hospital and Convalescent Home”, and the Duchess acceded to it being named after her.

The world-acclaimed ‘Hong Kong Operation’

DKCH was once renowned across the medical world for its groundbreaking spinal surgery in the last century. Developed by Professor Hodgson, the “anterior spinal work” for treating spinal tuberculosis, and the spine-straightening treatment known as “halo-pelvic traction” invented by Dr John O’Brien, were being done all over the world between 1960s and 1970s, with the former hailed as the “Hong Kong Operation”.

Owning a natural hydrotherapy centre

DKCH is located by the sea in Pokfulam. In the old days when it was still a convalescent home, there was a beach behind, not only a place where children splashed around, but also a natural hydrotherapy centre where hydrotherapy treatments were given. Boarding nurses would go clam digging on the beach, using their catch as a dish for dinner. However, following the reclamation, these days are gone.

Santa Claus is coming to town on ropes

A Christmas party has long been a tradition at DKCH on Christmas Day. Hospital staff and volunteers dress up as Santa Claus and different cartoon characters to visit the children in the hospital. Every year at 10 o’clock on Christmas morning, Santa Claus promptly arrives at DKCH. His means of entrance varies greatly, whether by horse, motorbikes, antique cars, armoured vehicle, helicopter or on ropes from rooftop. Yet, consistently he brings gifts, spreading joy and blessings to the young patients.

Secluded zoological and botanical garden at Sandy Bay

DKCH is enveloped by nature with rich biodiversity, resembling a zoological and botanical garden away from the bustle of city life. Informal estimate suggests that the hospital is home to over 100 species of plants, creating a verdant environment attracting wildlife. In times past, a large birdcage housed birds in DKCH’s garden, and to this day, various species of wild animals occasionally make appearances. Hospital staff have encountered squirrels and bats.

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