In the midst of a health crisis, the staff of Kentucky Children’s Hospital (KCH) has managed to bring some normalcy and joy to the lives of their young patients with their annual ‘Reverse Trick-or-Treat’ event. This initiative, now into its seventh year, pivots the usual Halloween celebrations to cater to the hospital-bound children who might otherwise miss the festivities of this much-loved occasion.
Unlike the traditional practice of children venturing out for treats, the staff of UK HealthCare tread the hospital corridors, taking the festivity to each child. For young patients who don’t feel robust enough to actively participate, they are encouraged to hang a bag on their closed door, thus ensuring they can partake in the treat indulgence later.
“Just because kids are in the hospital doesn’t mean they have to miss out on the fun,” emphasized Jennifer Guilliams, who oversees the Child and Family Life program at KCH. Hospital staff, adorned in the costumes of popular fictional characters, share a moment of happiness with the enthused children, filling their bags with candy that would last them for months. The event not only brings the fervor of Halloween to the hospital but also demonstrates that the spirit of the occasion can continue to flourish even when commemorated within restricted hospital confines.
The continuation of the tradition, however, is not without due consideration to the health conditions post the COVID-19 pandemic. The event is limited to small, internal UK groups, following the hospital’s stringent infection control protocols. Special emphasis is extended to children with food allergies or dietary restrictions. Patients considered more susceptible to contracting infections observe social distancing and disinfection regulations all throughout the festivities. Furthermore, every attempt is made by the Child Life staff to ensure the inclusivity of every child, irrespective of their state of health.
“If we can make the kids smile and laugh, even if it’s just for a few minutes, it makes it all worth it,” expresses Guilliams. This sentiment underscores the philosophy of UK HealthCare, the hospitals and clinics of the University of Kentucky harboring over 10,000 dedicated health care professionals and the state’s notable National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. They are relentlessly dedicated to delivering advanced care, exploring curative breakthroughs, and raising the bar of healthcare standards for future generations.
Source: https://uknow.uky.edu/uk-healthcare/kch-s-sweetest-trick-treats-delivered-directly-patients