We help increase coping and decrease stress, and that can look a lot of different ways in the hospital setting.

As child life specialists, we help normalize the hospital for families, whether that’s through special events, having our pet therapy dogs come into their rooms or offering playroom time.

During the holidays, a lot of families miss the traditions they might normally participate in during this season. Even while they’re having some of their most challenging times, we’re able to give some of that joy back to families.

That could include having Zoom time with their families during dinners, providing gifts for them and celebrating whatever holidays they observe in the playroom.

There’s magic everywhere in the hospital during this time of year. I heard a quote once that said, “I wish I could bottle up all the magic that is present throughout the holiday season and let a little bit of that magic out throughout the year.” I think we can all use some of that happiness and joy.

The whole point of the holiday season is to bring that joy to other people, and by providing these experiences, we fill families with a little bit of hope. It’s those moments when you watch a child get to see Santa in their hospital room or open a gift and exclaim, “How did you know everything I wanted?” That's why we do what we do, and these are experiences our patients wouldn’t have if it wasn’t for the Children’s Health community.

Earlier this year, I became one of the handlers for one of our newest pet therapy dogs, Coca-Cola. It’s amazing what children will tell me — any fears or misconceptions they’re having about the hospital — because Coca-Cola is there with them.

This will be his first holiday season at Children’s Health, and I can’t wait for the two of us to work together to help our families celebrate.