Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Antwerp University Hospital introduced IV-equipped tricycles for children. The project is supported by Jan Vertonghen Foundation, Appie VW, Cancer Foundation, UZA, and Levensloop Edegem to improve mobility and hospital experience.
As VRT News reported, Antwerp University Hospital has introduced special tricycles for children who need intravenous (IV) treatment. The tricycles are designed to hold the IV lines while allowing children to move around the hospital.
Professor Stin Verhulst said it is important for sick children to remain active.
“Even when children are ill, they must still be able to enjoy childhood,”
he said.
“Being able to move freely helps their emotional health and supports recovery. The tricycles let children explore the hospital instead of staying in bed all day.”
What are IV tricycles at Antwerp hospital doing for children’s care?
6-year-old Valentino was the first child to test the IV tricycle. A nurse attached his IV to the tricycle, and he immediately started riding through the hospital corridors. Hospital employees said the project allows children to move safely while receiving treatment.
“I can’t get my son off his bike anymore,”
laughs Santana, Valentino’s mother.
“It’s also very comforting for parents. Last year, I tried walking behind Valentino with the IV, but that’s not relaxing because the wires can get tangled everywhere.”
“The kids have already run through the hallway here today, and it’s a huge success. It gives them a lot of freedom.”
Jan Vertonghen, chairman of the Jan Vertonghen Foundation
The Jan Vertonghen Foundation helped fund the project to improve the hospital experience for young patients.
“This project perfectly aligns with our goal: children should be able to exercise in every situation,”
he said.
“It gives the children a lot of freedom. This way, they also get the feeling that they’re not tied to their bed. I think that can have a huge impact on a child and that it can boost their recovery,”
says the footballer.
Another organisation supporting the project is Appie VW, a non-profit founded by the parents of Lowie, a child who battled cancer for a year and a half. During treatment, Lowie’s parents often walked behind him while he received IV infusions. The Cancer Foundation, UZA Foundation, and Levensloop Edegem also contributed funding.
“We know from experience that it’s not easy to walk behind your child with an IV,
says Lowie’s father.
“With Appie VW, we’re trying to fill the void that followed Lowie’s death, and we’re thrilled to have been able to contribute. We believe the tricycles will really make an impact on children.”
Hospitals have started new projects to help children move while receiving IV treatment. In September 2025, UTMB Health introduced special platforms called “lily pads” attached to IV poles. Children could ride them through the hospital corridors during therapy. Each platform was decorated with themes like animals, superheroes, or sports, giving children a fun and personal experience. Another project, the “Infuuts Trike,” was developed by the Princess Máxima Centre, UMC Utrecht, and TechniCare.
