An unconventional approach to caring for kids with cancer
Patients and their families were treated to a welcome change of scenery and a different kind of care at this year’s pediatric hematology and oncology prom at our Children’s Pavilion Saturday. The happiness in the room was palpable and the size of the smiles immeasurable on this very special night.
The prom’s sole focus was to bring joy to both current patients and those who have completed their treatments for cancers and blood disorders. The team that usually provides medical care to these patients, who range in age from 18 months to 16 years, instead got the chance to pamper them treat and them like royalty.
“The staff, nurses and doctors meet these children and families on the absolute worst day of their lives,” said Robyn Dillon, clinical social worker for our hematology and oncology program. “The children and families have just learned they have cancer or sickle cell disease or some other hematological condition that will require ongoing treatment for survival. The medical team then is required to poke them with needles, access ports, give shots, administer chemotherapy and other uncomfortable interventions – all the while providing the most amazing tender, loving care.”
But this night is designed to be different. Dillon, who brought the idea of the prom to the hospital back in 2011, said, “For the medical staff to be able to interact with their patients and families in a fun and joyous way outside of the hospital and clinic is just wonderful. It’s so uplifting and beautiful to be able to see these kids just be themselves.”
A trip to the “fairy garden” for kids and families at CHoR
The “fairy garden” themed event was full of fantasy, fairies, elves and magical creatures. The 11th almost annual event resumed last year after taking a multi-year safety break due to the pandemic. More than 100 guests were treated to make-up, fairy hair and glitter tattoos in addition to a catered meal, a scavenger hunt, crafts, games and, of course, a dance floor complete with DJ.
The event, sponsored by NewMarket, was organized by a dedicated team of social workers, nurses, other team members and volunteers who planned for months, made many of the decorations by hand and made sure every detail was perfect.
"Who doesn't like playing dress up?"
Parents of patients say they are so grateful to the hospital for making sure their kids don’t miss out on milestone events due to their treatment. For many, like Brittany Brooks’ daughter, this is the first event they’ve been able to go to. Four-year-old Amari, who has sickle cell anemia, has been through a lot the past year and will likely need a bone marrow transplant. Her mom says this event is more than just a dance, it’s another way CHoR helps care for her daughter. “I love this event, she, just like all the kids, there’s so many different things they can’t do because they really don’t get to go out you know? So, to have things that girls and boys can come along and do something fun with each other. Who doesn't like playing dress up?"
And dress up they did. Attendees were dressed in everything from ball gowns to three-piece suits and there was tulle, taffeta and sparkles as far as the eye could see. The health care providers and organizers were also dressed to the nines and partied alongside their patients. About the providers, Brooks said, “They make it fun for them. You know a lot of kids are battling different things, but this is a great social experiment for the kiddos, because sometimes they’re hospitalized and they don’t have that social interaction. So, to be able to have an event like this, it means a lot.”
Brooks spoke for many of the parents saying, “From the bottom of my heart, I really thank you for everything that the Children’s Hospital has done for the kids and will continue to do for the kids, every event that you guys host, I will promise we will show up and show out.”
Learn how our team cares for kids with cancer and blood disorders - from diagnoses to dancing