Bethany L. Fisackerly

Words can not begin to express our gratitude for the donation we recently received. As a smaller children’s hospital, we are often not the first place that comes to mind when potential donors wish to make a difference. As a result, we do not get the same amount of community support that larger free-standing hospitals receive. Additionally, similar to most other healthcare institutions in this country, we have been hit by the budget crisis and unfortunately many other items (i.e. necessary medical equipment, staffing ratios, and infection control processes) must take priority over child life activities.

All of that to say, you can imagine our happy shock to discover that our recent shipment not only included much needed movies and video games, but iPads and gaming consoles. Our department has had these items on our ‘wishlist’ for years, knowing that with them we can support our patients in new and better ways. Believe me when I say the donation we received could not have come at a better time. Not only will it provide our patients with support, distraction, and therapeutic play, it has already revitalized our staff morale.

We are in the process of implementing a policy to allow patients the greatest amount of access to our gaming systems, and the DVDs will be incredibly useful in restocking our dwindling movie supply. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts. Organizations like yours not only make our jobs are child life specialists easier, but more enjoyable. We look forward to a continued partnership with you in the future; please know that your efforts are truly making a difference here in South Florida!

Bethany L. Fisackerly, MS, CCLS

Child Life Specialist