Events Archive

This is the second annual donation of portable DVD players to the oncology unit at Children's Memorial Hospital. These provide tremendous value to families, as distraction during moments of pain, anxiety, or just plain old boredom. This year, we are giving the hospital six players to give to families who could use one but can't afford it.

We are also giving them an iPad. This is a pilot iPad, the first in the hospital. The Child Life staff is thrilled to start using it with children on the oncology floor. This also includes some app money, so that everyone from toddlers to teens can find something to do. We will see if it turns out to be a good distraction for the kids. If so, more may follow.

Pictures to follow!

Being on an oncology unit during the holidays is not much fun.  Sometimes you have to make your own fun.  That's what we did in 2007 when Donna was hospitalized for her stem cell transplant.  The party was a huge success with patients, siblings, parents, grandparents, and staff all joining together to welcome a new year. 

This year we're doing it again and making it an annual tradition for Donna's Good Things.  We need help with invitations, decorations, seeking food donations, creating music playlists for kids aged 2-18 and shopping for party favors and noisemakers.  Want to join us?  Click on Get Involved and leave your contact information. 

July 20, 2011

Donna's Good Things, with the help of Benny's World, donates 3 new iPads to Children's Memorial Hospital!

Last year we donated an iPad to the Child Life staff of the Oncology Department at Children's Memorial. The iPad has been used for patient education about cancer and bodies, and as a tool for distraction during painful, uncomfortable, or anxious moments. Last year's donation was such a success that we've given three more. On Donna's birthday, we delivered three new iPads:  now there is one for each Child Life therapist to have their own to use with the kids, and one dedicated to the play room. Child Life staff have also received specialized training to use age appropriate apps with the kids to help them better understand their diagnosis and treatment.  With useful new apps being developed all the time, we hope this gift will continue to provide some joyful opportunities.

Thank you for your generous donations that make this possible. And a very special thank you to Benny's World, who sponsored one of the iPads. including its nifty orange cover, Benny's favorite color. 

Heidi Thomalla, Child Life Therapist, accepts the new iPads from Donna's Good Things. 

 "This year Team Donna is running the Soldier Field 10 Race for Donna's Good Things. $25 admission includes amazing hors d'oeuvres, a terrific basket raffle, and live music. Drink specials and cash bar will be available."

Lots of doings in Downer's Grove on Friday evening, so stop by the Lemon Tree before or after. The event runs all night, right until the 2am closing. We'll be there to cheer on Team Donna as they get ready for the Soldier Field 10 on May 26!

Thank you so much, Lemon Tree Grocer!