Every child deserves the hope to live and thrive while enduring unimaginable pain and overcoming health challenges.
Our mission is to provide a gift box to children before they undergo chemotherapy, burn wound treatment, or a major procedure. The boxes contain blankets with uplifting printed messages to offer a sense of security, personalized water bottles to encourage hydration, and handwritten notes. Pediatric patients may not know what their future holds, but they deserve to discover a small box with love and a strong sense of hope, despite the long road they are walking.
While volunteering at the Emergency Department at Massachusetts General Hospital, I
witnessed children grappling with various illnesses. I vividly remember a 6-year-old girl saying, "I can't do this anymore. I am scared". One common thread among all of the pediatric patients was the intense emotional and physical pain, fearful tears, and deep sadness due to their unknown future. Studies show that particular objects such as blankets can alleviate discomfort for critically ill pediatric patients in hospitals, and a clinical trial also demonstrates that security blankets can mitigate distress during pediatric procedures and examinations (Carnevale FA, Gaudreault J. Dynamics. 2013;24(1):19-27. Ybarra GJ, Passman RH, Eisenberg CS. J Consult Clin Psychol. 2000;68(2):322-30). We truly believe that young children are at a pivotal age for defining their self-identity, and this time is crucial for their emotional development. Unfortunately, for those facing serious health challenges, long and frequent hospitalizations rob them of the chance to enjoy a typical childhood. This can make it incredibly difficult for them to see their own purpose and self-worth, as they miss out on a child's opportunity to explore their unique identities and passions. Recognizing this, we strive to bring a bit of light into their lives, and having hope can serve as the first step in bringing healing to their lives. By gifting these children boxes with inspirational messages, we aim to offer them a sense of accomplishment in overcoming their non-traditional obstacles. More importantly, we want to remind them that there are people who are cheering for them with love, and there is hope for the limitless possibilities that lie ahead of them.
Sophiette Hong is currently attending Harvard College.
She hopes to make a positive contribution to the future healthcare system.
Viviette Hong is currently attending Noble and Greenough School.
She hopes to pursue a career in business.
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