I have some great news to share.
Each year the Meridian Health hosts an event called the Superhero Soiree to recognize those who are making a difference in their community. This year they have chosen to honor me as their Hometown Hero Award recipient. I am so humbled and appreciative to receive an award from such a great, caring hospital.
The Superhero Soiree is a celebration to recognize the everyday heroes at the hospital – especially the most deserving ones kids, families, and caregivers.
Similar to our Champions of Change, they also select someone to honor who has made a positive difference in the community. This year, they selected me, and I can’t tell you how excited I am.
I have worked with a lot of different organizations and have seen many different needs. One of the areas that really impacts me is seeing kids not be able to be kids. Kids want to have sleep-overs at their friends’ homes; they want to climb the monkey bars and put their books in their school locker each morning. No matter how incredible a hospital can be, a hospital is no place for a kid.
Years ago, as the holiday season was approaching, we did a grant visit at a hospital. After my mom and Jennifer asked all the financial questions, I asked about what I knew, “What happens on Christmas morning?” I knew what was suppose to happen, the trees and gifts, the family, food, and smiles. I realized that my Christmas morning wasn’t the morning kids in the hospital would wake up to.
After some secretive holiday list inquiries and extensive shopping, we made the holiday season come alive for the kids. I donned my Santa’s Helper suit, officially named myself Kyra Claus (Santa’s Jewish niece), and made an annual event of delivering toys to different children’s hospitals in the area. I love carrying around my Santa sack of gifts. I would walk into each room, deliver a gift, and receive a smile. I can’t begin to explain the joy I felt from each smile and I can’t explain the knots I felt in my chest as I entered each room. My day as Kyra Claus is one of my favorite days of the year.
If you have ever been honored for the work you do in your community I would love to hear about it!
And if you haven’t, let me know what you are up too! No matter how big or small, keep pushing to make a difference in your community. If you need any suggestions on how, CLF has plenty. There are so many opportunities to help others. And who knows, maybe you will be our next Champion for Change or your own hometown’s hero. 🙂
