A Legacy of Medical Clowning: Tsour's Journey in The Dream Doctors Project
Tsour Shriqui’s journey with The Dream Doctors Project began in 2012, following in the footsteps of his father, Yaakov Shriqui, who founded the organization in 2002. The Dream Doctors Project aims to embed the profession of medical clowning into Israel's healthcare and emergency response systems. Under Tsour’s leadership as CEO, the organization has expanded its reach and impact, working in partnership with 32 medical centers across Israel, as well as clinics, nursing homes, and international humanitarian missions.
Transforming Healthcare with Medical Clowning
The Dream Doctors Project employs 100 medical clowns who work daily as part of medical teams to provide care for patients of all ages, in any medical condition. These clowns not only bring joy and comfort to patients but also respond immediately to humanitarian crises both in Israel and abroad. One of Tsour’s proudest achievements is gaining formal recognition for medical clowning from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The IDF’s Medical Corps and Home Front Command now officially recognize medical clowning as a reservist role, with clowns serving in humanitarian missions worldwide, including trauma response units after the events of October 7.
Milestones and Achievements
Under Tsour’s leadership, The Dream Doctors Project has received significant recognition, including:
The Presidential Award for Volunteerism (2018)
Advisory status at UN institutions
Recognition by the IDF Medical Corps and Home Front Command for medical clowning in military reserves
Launch of the first-ever certification program for medical clowning at the Shamir School of Nursing (2024)
Publication of over 34 scientific studies in medical journals
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Tsour envisions medical clowning becoming a standard service in hospitals and community healthcare, fully recognized and regulated by the state. His mission is to ensure that medical clowning is an integral part of healthcare, offering emotional and psychological support to patients in need.
The Value of CALO
Tsour has been an active member of a CALO forum for the past two years. He highlights the immense personal and professional value the forum provides, noting how the group has evolved into a strong, cohesive unit. The monthly meetings are a vital space for members to express themselves, share similar dilemmas, and provide mutual support. One unique aspect of their group is that they quickly took the reins in managing and facilitating the forum, creating a distinctive DNA that makes the group even more powerful.
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