Connecticut Children's Staff Deliver Halloween Treats to 100 Patient Rooms
Approximately 70 employees dressed in costume to visit hospitalized children on Friday, allowing patients to participate in the holiday without leaving their beds.
By Alexander Parker ·
Children admitted to Connecticut Children’s Medical Center on Friday received Halloween costumes and treats at their bedside, an annual tradition that allows patients to celebrate without leaving the hospital. Staff members delivered snacks and small gifts directly to rooms, creating a mobile party for those unable to join community events.
The event involved roughly 70 hospital employees who visited approximately 100 patient rooms. Participants dressed in a variety of characters, including Minions and Buzz Lightyear. The staff also provided food items such as hot dogs for the children.
Katie Robbins, a representative for Connecticut Children’s, stated that the program aims to restore a sense of normalcy for young patients. “For kids to be kids even when they’re in the hospital,” Robbins said. She noted that hospitalization often removes daily decision-making power from children. “There’s so much choice lost for kids when they’re in the hospital. Our goal is to give them that choice back,” Robbins said.
Families expressed appreciation for the inclusion. Marlynn Tosses, whose child is a patient, highlighted the effort to involve everyone in the activities. “He’s in a wheelchair, and it’s amazing how they involve everyone in the activities,” Tosses said. She added that the event ensures her child does not miss out on the holiday despite being confined to the facility.
The reverse trick-or-treating model shifts the activity from the neighborhood to the hospital corridors. By bringing the celebration to the patients, the medical center maintains the spirit of the day for children who cannot travel home or to local venues.
Source: NBC Connecticut
