The sound of giggling babies and gleeful kids filled the BankPlus Community Room at Children’s of Mississippi on Tuesday, March 26th. Friends of Children’s Hospital hosted their annual Easter party for Children’s patients on a busy and bustling day at the state’s only children’s hospital. Patients filled Easter baskets to the brim, having their pick from countless toys, activities, and games. Each patient received a special wooden Easter egg, hand-painted by the artists at Olde Tyme Commissary. Just outside the community room, a sea of bubbles greeted patients as they entered the Gayle and Tom Benson playground. Volunteers from Trustmark hid eggs on the playground and helped the Friends staff stock shiny clear bins of colorful, new toys. Patients gathered more than 1,600 Easter eggs, and Friends gave away 220 Easter baskets. The Easter bunny greeted patients and posed for photos in front of a brightly decorated photo spot. This year’s Miss Mississippi, Vivian O’Neal, also stopped by for a visit and helped patients fill their Easter baskets with goodies. It was a beautiful day for a spring celebration and the source of many smiles.
Founded in 1989, Friends of Children’s Hospital is dedicated to elevating the healthcare experience for children in Mississippi to create hope, smiles, and a place where patients can be kids. Friends funds special projects for the hospital including the Child Life program, which was designed as a resource to patients and their families during their treatment at the hospital. Child Life Specialists work one-on-one with patients, educating them on upcoming procedures, planning celebrations, and providing comfort in times of stress and loss. In addition to funding the Child Life program, Friends also completes special projects like decorating the hospital for Christmas and planning exciting holiday parties like this year’s Easter party. For more information about Friends of Children’s Hospital or to participate in one of their fundraisers, visit friendsofch.org or contact the office at 601-936-0034.
