COVID's Continued Impact on Hospitalized Kids

Community Stories

·Jan 11th, 2022

As the new year begins, a record number of kids are being hospitalized across the country. Hospital visits can be scary enough on their own, but with strict COVID-19 safety protocols, kids are more isolated and anxious than ever before..

"Our job fundamentals are to normalize the hospital environment but, how can we achieve this goal when what is going on globally is not 'normal'?"
- Tracy Reyes Serrano, CCLS at UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital

When kids are scared, Starlight programs are there to provide happiness, comfort, and joy.

Starlight Gaming stations offer a safe way to play, Starlight Gowns provide a moment of comfort and in a sterile environment, and Starlight Virtual Reality can help a kid go beyond the walls of their hospital room.

“Starlight brings a smile to our patients and normalizes the environment in their most anxious hour.”
- Debi Fingerhut, Senior Child Life Specialist/Educatorat Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach

The past few years have taught us all the feeling of longing for a moment of comfort or normalcy—and Starlight is here to give that to kids when they need it most.

Help give hospitalized kids a reason to smile. Donate to Starlight today.