Holiday giving

Spreading holiday magic that lasts all year

Imagine the joy of a child’s smile as they receive a toy or item that brightens their day, lifts their spirits and offers a distraction from the reason why they are in a hospital. Now imagine being able to give that magic to our patients year-round. This holiday season, you have the unique opportunity to spread love, hope and cheer to our brave young patients that lasts beyond the holidays.

Sometimes, it’s the little things about a patient’s stay at Cook Children’s that can make a big difference. Whether it’s a cozy pair of sweatpants, a fidget toy or an art kit, your gifts provide our patients with a point of connection that allows the healing to begin. You can choose a giving opportunity that is meaningful to you or just touches your heart.

“When I see a patient and I give them something that suits them perfectly, we see a huge change in their demeanor,” said Megan Hodges Cook, Child Life Community Program coordinator. “Maybe they aren’t feeling good, they don’t want to be here or they don’t understand what’s going on. Their face lights up and you start getting engagement from that child. That engagement is key to their recovery.”

Our most requested items range from infant supplies (Wubbanub pacifiers, teethers, rattles, etc.) to teen needs (adult-sized sweatpants, room décor, etc.) to fidgets and Legos.

“I’ve had many parents say to me, ‘This gift has changed our stay. It’s providing healing,’” said Megan. “A lot of times these gifts, particularly fidgets, allow a child to better cope with what’s going on, especially during hard procedures.”

Your donation today brightens a child’s life not only this holiday season, but throughout the year.