Inside the Hospital’s annual drive to make the season special for patients and families
When kids can’t go home for the holidays, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego brings the holidays to them. Throughout the holiday season, Rady Children’s and community partners work together to deliver hope and holiday spirit to patients and their families.
The Hospital’s annual Light the Way tradition encompasses special events at the Hospital and fundraisers throughout San Diego County that help bring joy to patients and families.
“There are hundreds of children in the Hospital right now. Light the Way is our way to let them know that their community is here for them,” says Sara McPhilmy, director of philanthropy, corporate and community development for the Rady Children’s Hospital Foundation. “Light The Way lets the community come together for these families to make them feel seen during a time where they would perhaps feel forgotten.”
Every December, San Diego lifeguards, firefighters and law enforcement officers lead a lights-and-siren parade to show their support for patients, who reciprocate by shining flashlights from Hospital windows. The parade may be the most recognizable part of holidays at Rady Children’s, but it’s far from the only way the Hospital shows up for patients and families this season.
One of the most meaningful part of the season at Rady Children’s is the Holiday Book and Toy Store, where parents can select gifts without leaving the Hospital. Thanks to the generosity of the San Diego community, this initiative has grown year after year. And kids who wonder whether Santa can find them don’t have to worry at Rady Children’s. The Hospital has a special ho-ho-holiday guest who goes room to room to keep the magic alive.
All of these efforts and more are made possible by the generosity of the San Diego community. Light the Way’s fundraising goes toward presents and keepsakes, festive decorations, celebrations throughout the season and support for parents. And there are lots of fun ways for the public to help. For example, skating at the Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station or wrapping presents at Westfield UTC can help the Hospital make a difference for patients.
“There are so many different things that people can be involved with — you can volunteer at our gift-wrapping station in UTC, you can fundraise for the kids or participate in our virtual toy drive and wish list,” says McPhilmy. “There’s really an opportunity for everyone.”
To learn more about Light the Way and how you can help Rady Children’s make the holiday season special for patients and families, visit radyfoundation.org/LTW.