Usually I’m very festive. My tree goes up right after Thanksgiving, I’m done holiday shopping weeks before Christmas, indulging in yummy holiday treats, smiling at little kids waiting in line to meet Santa – you know, the fun stuff!
So, for the first time ever in my life, I am not feeling the holiday. It’s probably a combination of personal and work. I don't want to do a tree - I just don't wanna...and then it happened as it always happens at Children's Specialized, I am reminded of the kindness and generosity that is extended by staff and strangers to our children and our hospital.
Remember the holiday cookie baking fun at Stevens Road? I think our staff deserves a medal for bringing out the sprinkles and cookie cutters, all to help bring a little holiday fun into therapy. That’s the spirit!
Just this morning, Vieno shared with me a wonderful story of holiday cheer.
With the holidays just around the corner, our staff in New Brunswick was getting a little worried because holiday donations had seriously dropped off from years past. Our annual holiday party for inpatients is just a few weeks away and staff was getting a little worried we wouldn’t have enough gifts for everyone! Just in the nick of time, we get a call from Diane Bonanno's office at Rutgers Recreation. The seventh annual Big Chill 5K is on Saturday, Dec.12 and instead of paying a fee, entrants are asked to bring an unwrapped toy for children in need across the garden state. With nearly 5,000 people signed up – we’re sure our patients, and many lucky kids around the state, will have a wonderful holiday with presents to spare. Since its inception, the race has provided over 20,000 presents to several NJ charities including the NJ Housing Authority and now PSE&G Children’s Specialized Hospital – New Brunswick. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Clause… and he’s running through New Brunswick on Saturday!
As expected, our staff and generous supporters have given me a dose of holiday spirit.
What is your favorite holiday memory or tradition? Here at Children’s or even at home with your family? What really gets you in the mood to break out the tinsel and eggnog?
Amy
