WHY I CHOSE MY PLATFORM

I am excited to choose the Child Life Department at University Children's Hospital as my platform! My youngest son was born with Spina Bifida and I have always tried to bring awareness to that as well BUT this summer we had to spend almost 6 weeks in the hospital and it was then that I really saw and appreciated the work that the Child Life Department does. They do so much more than just bringing a toy by and giving to a kid. They educate them and ease their fears before procedures, they make birthdays/ holidays spent in the hospital special, they help cheer a kid up on days when they feel completely defeated and upset, they help to uplift a worried parent, they distract from scary situations, and so much more. Nurses and doctors are very much heroes in this world but the fact that the Child Life workers can be around all they are and stay cheery and positive for these kids and their families make them heroes as well and I look forward to toy & gift card drives and anything else I can do to raise awareness for this wonderful program!