Alex

I have been a hospital volunteer at Children's Hopsitals and Clinics of Minneapolis for 4 summers. The volunteer program we have consists of people who are designated by the hospital only to assist with life enrichment, we perform no sorts of procedures and are assigned to the duty of elevating the moods of the patients and their families. This past summer, I met a nine year old who spoke no English but was very expressive. We couldn't communicate verbally, but we were able to interact by playing Lego: Star Wars, and we developed a friendship over a few weeks until I was told that he was discharged from the hospital with a clean bill of health.

I've seen a lot of sick children, and I have heard them laugh, I've gotten hugs, and I've had some pictures drawn for me, but I have to say that the most telling sign of joy was remembering this boy's smile as we played and achieved together. It was probably the high point of my summer.

I respect you greatly for what you're able to do with your charity.