When children are faced with being in the hospital for illness or treatment, it can be one of the most challenging times for both their physical and mental health. Certified child life specialists provide emotional support to pediatric patients and their families.  

In March, during Child Life Month in Canada, to celebrate and assist child life specialists, Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada launched its new online Hospital Wish List initiative. 

The first of its kind in Canada, the Starlight Canada Hospital Wish List seeks to fulfill, in real-time, the direct requests of eight vital in-hospital programs from over 100 Canadian hospitals that Child Life Specialists use during treatments, visits, and surgeries to support the mental well-being of hospitalized children. This list allows donors to grant needs-based hospital wishes, sending specific programming to the Canadian hospitals of their choice. Currently, there are more than 36,000 requests for Starlight 
Canada’s programs in the system. 

The Grande Prairie Regional Hospital has also joined hospitals across Canada in this initiative and has already had one wish granted; a treasure chest full of items to entertain kids of all age groups. Other wishes on the GPRH wish list include, admit kits, baby, teen and toddler kits, along with a fun center, and handheld video games.  

“For over 30 years, Starlight Canada has recognized the important role Child Life Specialists play in the care journey of kids dealing with the emotional challenges that stem from hospitalization,” says Starlight Canada Chief Executive Officer Brian Bringolf. 

To contribute to the GPRH Wish List yourself or for someone in tribute, please visit the GPRH WISH LIST