We're super excited for Greyson's Annual Big Give to the Boston Children's Cardiology unit! We broke our $6,500 goal last year with a total of $7,510 raised and we're hoping to do even better this year so please help us by Giving Big for Greyson J!
As most who know us know, Boston Children's Hospital holds an extremely special place in our hearts. They have done so much for Greyson and our family during our time there and beyond, and we could never thank them enough. Greyson spent most of his time in the hospital in the Cardiac ICU, and without the incredible doctors, nurses and staff of the Cardiac ICU, we have no doubt that we would not have gotten the chance to live the beautiful, full and amazing life together that we did.
Each year the CICU treats over 1,300 patients ranging from newborn babies all the way into adulthood. Many of these patients come from all over the world and like us, they may not have much warning that they will be heading to the hospital so they can't plan and pack accordingly. When Greyson was first born he was flown from UVM to Boston and we had no clue what was going to happen or how long we'd be there for. We didn't have time to pack clothes or diapers, let alone think about toys or other things he would need during his stay. The reality is those things are the last thing on your mind, but luckily there are tons of items that get donated each year to help these kids feel at home. Things like blankets, hats, vibrating or singing stuffed animals and noise machines provide much needed comfort to scared little babies who may not even be able to be held or picked up because of all of the wires and machines hooked to them. For older babies and toddlers things like bouncy seats, coloring books, fun toys and other activities are instrumental in their development and also add joy into their day and distract from uncomfortable or redundant procedures and check ups.
As a parent there is no worse feeling than knowing your child is not well, and much of your time in the hospital is spent feeling helpless and inadequate, so to know there are items available for you to give your child that help them feel better and more at home is a truly amazing gift! That's why we are so passionate about being able to give back in Greyson's name directly to a cause and place that had such a huge impact on our lives and that we feel is so important! The money we raise will go directly to the Cardiac ICU to purchase items for the children to have while they are there.
Here's some examples of just how far your donation can go:
$50: 16 packs of Play-Doh for patients to create with or to squish when feeling nervous.
$100: Five medical play kits to help patients learn about and better understand their hospital experience.
$250: 25 Lego sets to encourage kids to think beyond the four walls of their hospital room and build something new.
$500: One month of treasure box items for an entire unit. These small prizes encourage a smile after a difficult experience.
$1,000: 20 birthday parties for patients or their siblings who will spend their special day in the hospital.
Greyson, Jon and I thank you so much for your support. Being able to honor our sweet, beautiful boy in such a big way makes our hearts so full and we know we couldn't do it without your generosity and care!
