Help Us Share Joy and Healing – Support the Child Life Team at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital
When our third son, Brooks, was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), our world changed. He’s undergone four open-heart surgeries and numerous other procedures—all at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Tampa, Florida.
This wasn’t the journey we imagined, but we’ve seen God work miracles through it. From doctors and nurses to techs, therapists, social workers, and beyond, we’ve been surrounded by a care team that became family—giving Brooks nothing short of the best care possible.
And through it all, one team consistently brought light to the darkest days: the Child Life Team.
We call the hospital “Hotel St. Joe”—our second home. And in that home, the Child Life Team has been a lifeline. They helped Brooks prepare for tough procedures, supported his recovery, eased his fears, and made long days feel a little shorter with play, comfort, and distraction. From art and music therapy to stuffed animals and scavenger hunts, they cared for Brooks' heart in every sense of the word.
But they don’t just serve Brooks—they serve every child and family walking through those hospital doors. And now, we have a chance to give back.
Christmas in July is here—and YOU can make a difference!
This month, we’re rallying support for the Child Life Team by funding their free therapy programs (like music, art, massage, and therapy dogs!) and restocking the toy closet that brings comfort and joy to kids like Brooks.
Here’s how you can help:
-
Sponsor a therapy or toy with a donation of $10, $15, $20, or more
-
Drop off a new toy at one of our Toy Drive locations
-
Give digitally and let your gift go straight to where it’s needed most
Give joy. Give comfort. Give hope.
Join us in honoring Brooks’ journey and lifting up the next child who needs a miracle.
Together, we can bring healing in the form of laughter, creativity, and love.
Let’s fill the halls of “Hotel St. Joe” with joy—one toy, one therapy, one child at a time.