Costumed kids roamed the halls of Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital this Halloween, a sight that brought exclusive festivity to a place that knows the keen sting of hardship. In an effort reminiscent of neighborhood trick-or-treating, staff and patients at MWPH joined forces to celebrate the holiday, according to a report by FOX Baltimore.
The hospital’s Child Life Department led an effort to bring joy and comfort to young patients. Their goal was to help children feel normal and prepare them for life after their hospital stay, which can be hard. Different hospital units joined in the fun — the baby unit was decorated with a Monsters Inc. theme, while other areas featured superheroes and storybook characters.
A standout participant was three-year-old Vydalia Abdullah, who, despite a feeding tube, paraded with vigor through the hospital. Her father, Abdulmalik Abdullah, remarked to WMAR-2 News, "I didn't expect this day to turn out in this way. Each floor had their own theme. Baby unit had Monsters Inc. It was wonderful. It took the pressure off." Concessions for medical restrictions were considered — candy was replaced with toys, stickers, and bubbles, with the latter bringing particular joy to Vydalia, a simple yet profound gesture acknowledging the nuanced needs of child patients.
The celebration transcended mere decoration or festivity, representing a momentary escape from the gravitas that saturates the hospital walls.
