Back in March Bob Iger, Disney CEO and Chairman, announced that Disney would commit $100 million, over the next five years, to help reinvent the experience for children and their families at Children’s hospitals around the world.
The first hospital that Disney is working with is the Texas Children’s Hospital.
We chose Texas Children’s Hospital because they are global leaders in pediatric care as well as the largest children’s hospital in the country and their dedicated healers share our commitment to support the emotional well being of young patients and their families.- Bob Iger
To do this Disney has created a Team of Heroes made up of patient care experts. Their job is to help Disney understand what patients and parents experience.
This journey has already begun, earlier this year “Disney Imagineers transformed the hospital to include mobile movie screens, interactive windows and colorful murals.” Patients also get a “magic bracelet” that let’s them unlock surprises all over the hospital. It reminds me of magic bands meeting the Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom game.
On Tuesday, July 23, the Disney Team of Heroes returned to the hospital to deliver toys and smiles to the patients and their families.
So excited to deliver the #DisneyToyDelivery to @TexasChildrens today! This program is all part of #DisneyTeamOfHeroes, @Disney’s initiative to delivering comfort and inspiration to kids facing serious illness. Learn how you can support your community at https://t.co/ZeslPibQUD pic.twitter.com/XNNfBJKas9
— Brhe Berry ABC13 (@BrheABC13) July 23, 2019
According to ABC 13 children were able to play and visit stations before getting a chance to pick out some toys:
At a Pixar station, kids placed parts on Mr. Potato Head before heading to the Star Wars galaxy and making their own light saber.
Next, they traveled to the Marvel universe, where they made their own Captain America shield.
In the ESPN zone, they became star athletes, throwing a football through the goal post.
The event wrapped up with an opportunity for kids to pick out toys and games. VoluntEARS were also on hand to help spread the joy and happiness.
I really love this idea, especially that Imagineers are reinventing the space to make it more enjoyable for children and their families. Being in the hospital is very difficult for families and I find this form of outreach admirable.
Since Disney has been in the news a lot for negative aspects (fights, low crowds, etc.) it’s nice to see something positive they are doing to help others.
What do you think? Comment and let us know!
Source: ABC13
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