Holiday Cheer: Georgia’s Heartwarming Hospital Story
Four-year-old Georgia was diagnosed with kidney cancer (Wilms Tumor) when she was two years old.
While Georgia was a frequent visitor to Goryeb Morriston Children’s Hospital in Lincoln Park, New Jersey, for scans, blood work, and IVs, one visit in December stood out. This time, she needed surgery during the peak of the holiday season.
Georgia did not look forward to her trip to the hospital, and understandably so. She often feels nervous during hospital visits. She would also miss out on the festivities that make the holidays so special – opening presents, twinkling lights, the warmth of meeting with loved ones. As her mother, Gina, explains, “She definitely wanted to stay at home that day instead of waking up first thing to go to the hospital.”
But the magic of the holidays greeted her as she stepped into the hospital. Her Child Life Specialist presented her with a gift of Starlight Toy Deliveries! This surprise lifted Georgia’s spirits, giving her a sense of satisfaction and ease that helped her endure through the rest of her hospitalization. “The hospital stay was covered in presents and Georgia remained very content the whole time!” Gina recalls.
For kids like Georgia, opening a new toy at the hospital brings the excitement of the holidays to their bedside. It ensures that they don’t miss out on the magic of the season and fills them with a sense of happiness. This joy helps children feel more at ease, more cooperative with treatments, and emotionally resilient.
“When she had to go through something so awful, especially the day after a holiday, it meant so much for her to have something new to play with while waiting for surgery to start.”
- Gina, Georgia's Mom
Starlight Toy Deliveries are lifelines of emotional support that help kids endure treatment and heal with a smile. You can make a life-changing difference today for kids like Georgia by ensuring they get resources like Starlight programs.
Embrace the spirit of giving by helping a seriously ill child who needs your support right now. With every dollar, you provide a child with moments of happiness that turn a challenging time into one filled with laughter and cheer.
Don’t wait. The impact you make today can brighten the days of hospitalized kids tomorrow.
