As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego is already aglow with preparations for one of its most beloved traditions—Light the Way. Each year, this heartwarming celebration brings joy, light and a sense of togetherness to patients and families spending the holidays in the Hospital. And this year, even amid a major campus transformation, the spirit of the season is shining brighter than ever.
A Season of Giving and Growing
One of the most cherished traditions at Rady Children’s is the Holiday Toy Store, where parents can select a book and a toy for each of their kids—including siblings at home. Thanks to the generosity of the San Diego community, this initiative has grown year after year. The goal is simple but meaningful: to help parents bring joy to their kids, even amid medical challenges.
“That parent-child bond is so important to honor and support while kids are in the Hospital,” explains Alex Loker, vice president of philanthropy at Rady Children’s. “Parents often feel like they’ve lost some control over their child’s day-to-day life. Giving them the ability to choose a toy or a book helps restore a sense of normalcy and joy during the holiday season.”
A Moment to Remember
Among the many touching moments over the years, one story stands out. During a past Light the Way celebration, a young boy undergoing cancer treatment hadn’t seen his siblings in months due to flu season restrictions. But during the parade, his family gathered outside his window with signs and flashlights, sending love and light from below.
“There wasn’t a dry eye in the house,” Loker recalls. “It was such a pure moment of joy—for him to see that support, and for his siblings to see him. That’s what this season is all about.”
Looking Ahead
In addition to Light the Way and the Holiday Toy Store, Rady Children’s will continue its gift-wrapping volunteer program at Westfield UTC Mall and host the iHeart Rady Children’s Giveathon, rallying the community to support young patients.
The Hospital is also focused on growing its year-round patient experience programming, which includes music therapy, canine therapy, milestone celebrations and regular access to books and toys.
“Our team wants more activities for more kids on a more regular basis,” says Loker. “We’re building on the amazing programs our team members and community already do—and we couldn’t do it without the support of our generous donors right here in San Diego.”
As the holidays approach, Rady Children’s reminds us all that the greatest gift we can give is the light of love, health, hope and community.