HERSHEY, Pa. — Lori Shapiro, Pennsylvania’s first lady, and Debra Bogen, acting secretary of healthy, spent time with patients at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital today (Jan. 31). Shapiro and Bogen played bingo with young patients and learned how funds generated by THON at Penn State University help patients and their families.
“As parents of four children, Josh and I know how lucky Pennsylvania is to have so many world-class health care providers,” Shapiro said. “It was a pleasure to join Dr. Bogen and learn more about the exemplary work Penn State Health Children’s Hospital is doing to support kids and families.”
The Child Life Program runs bingo every Wednesday with patients and families at the Children’s Hospital.
Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital is the sole beneficiary of THON. Four Diamonds works to conquer childhood cancer and offsets the cost of treatment that insurance does not cover, as well as expenses that may affect the welfare of the child. Since its inception, THON has raised more than $219 million for Four Diamonds.
Through THON’s fundraising each year, Four Diamonds is able to make services like Child Life possible for kids fighting cancer at the Children’s Hospital. The Child Life Program helps patients prepare for and cope with the stress that can come with health problems and hospital stays, including organizing weekly bingo games for patients.
“Playing games and engaging in interesting, fun activities are helpful for children and their families who are facing serious medical issues,” Bogen said. “Child Life Programs provide a crucial role in supporting the developmental and emotional well-being of children and their families during hospitalizations and outpatient procedures, and this support can facilitate better physical health outcomes.”