A kid in hospital
This is the story of Charlotte. And how she got to be a kid while she was in hospital, not just a patient.For a new parent, life can be turned upside down in a moment. For Michelle and Joey, Charlotte’s mom and dad, that moment came when their doctor told them their baby’s bloodwork showed abnormal cells, and that they should get to SickKids as fast as possible.
Charlotte’s been in hospital for such a long time that SickKids is where she learned to walk.
Charlotte’s been in hospital for such a long time that SickKids is where she learned to walk. And she’s not alone. For many children and families in hospital, milestones and moments that are usually a cause for celebration at home happen here. But, thanks to donors, SickKids makes sure special moments happen for kids in hospital.
Charlotte’s first birthday was one of them. Mom Michelle tells the story:
On Saturday April 21st, she woke up to her new pink car in her room. She was so excited to drive it around the halls – she gave everyone the royal wave. She loved honking the horn and turning the steering wheel. The best was watching her do her famous ‘Charlotte wiggle’ in it. She will honestly bust a move anywhere. The day continued with the nurses surprising her with a giant happy birthday card on her door, along with a bag full of toys. They all got together and sang happy birthday to her. A. Leboo (one of SickKids Therapeutic Clowns – a program that’s totally donor funded) came by to sing and dance with her – they had a dance party in the hall.
Charlotte’s birthday was capped off by a surprise visit – from her best friend since birth: Ella, her golden retriever. Charlotte and Ella hadn’t seen each other for four months. Says Michelle, “When she came around the corner and Charlotte saw her, Charlotte was beyond excited – she was the happiest I’ve seen her since being here.”
Making special moments happen, so that a kid can just be a kid, is what donors do. For SickKids patient Charlotte and her family, her first birthday meant more than a lot.
