A MagicianS touch: Carlo Clerici awarded Golden Ambrogino for Healing Through Illusion
Milan honored the memory of Dr. Carlo Clerici, a pediatrician and accomplished magician, with the prestigious Golden Ambrogino award, recognizing his unique and impactful approach to caring for young patients battling cancer. Clerici,who passed away recently,dedicated his life to not only treating illness but also nurturing the spirit and self-esteem of children undergoing treatment at the Pediatric Oncology department of the Institute in via Venezian.
Clerici’s connection to Milan ran deep, finding solace and inspiration in Sempione Park, which he considered his favorite place for walking and reading. This personal connection mirrored a lineage steeped in performance; he was a descendant of Le Follet (born Bartolomeo Viganego), a celebrated antipodist, juggler, and illusionist of the Belle Époque.
However, it was his own mastery of magic and illusion that became central to his medical practice. clerici believed in the inherent magic within each child, famously begining his sessions with the phrase: “I can prove to you that you are magical.” He understood that children facing a pediatric tumor – often rare and aggressive – required more than just medical attention; they needed to maintain their sense of self and hope.
To further this approach, Clerici, alongside his wife and colleagues, inspired the creation of a specialized university course open to people of all faiths and none, focused on understanding and applying these principles. His office at the National Cancer Institute was deliberately designed as a “wunderkrammer” – a chamber of wonders – filled with games, toys, and magical props. Walls were adorned with children’s artwork, creating a welcoming and uplifting environment that felt worlds away from a hospital ward.
Clerici didn’t simply perform magic for the children; he empowered them to experience it themselves, fostering a sense of agency and accomplishment.He was a passionate advocate for knowledge sharing, actively utilizing social media to disseminate data and insights. Described by his wife as a “curious man, eclectic scholar,” Clerici was also known for his non-judgmental nature and dedication to open dialogue.
The Golden Ambrogino serves as a fitting tribute to a doctor who understood that healing extends beyond medicine, and that a little bit of magic can go a long way in restoring hope and self-worth to those who need it most. A website dedicated to his life and work continues to share his videos and writings, ensuring his legacy of compassion and innovation lives on.
