CHICAGO — Some Chicago-area children facing serious health challenges got a huge dose of Disney magic Friday.
It’s part of a global Disney tour to bring toys and holiday fun to some of the youngest patients at children’s hospitals.
It’s the kind of the magic only beloved Disney characters could bring.
Stitch and Minnie Mouse visited Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago on a mission to bring smiles and holiday cheer.
“After a year of mayhem, Stich is on a mission to secure a spot on Santa’s nice list, and spreading holiday magic to family and kids all around the world,” said Shannon Smith-Conrad, a Walt Disney ambassador.
Ellie is recovering from a recent injury.
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“Seeing Stitch kind of made our day, made us feel a bit more normal after last couple of days,” her father Gabriel Orelov said.
“We strive to make sure we normalize our families’ stays to make sure that we have fun, have a space to feel like kids while they’re in the hospital. And things like this do a great job bringing the outside world into the hospital,” said Mara Smith, Lurie Panda Care Center activities coordinator.
There were plenty of hugs and smiles Friday. And for those too young to remember, it was a welcome respite for their parents, who no doubt have spent countless hours by their side.
The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of this ABC station.
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