Why Reading to SickKids Makes Me Feel Good
By Cheryl Hickey

The last few Christmas holidays, I have found myself thinking about a group of kids I have never even met - wondering if these children know people are thinking about them, pulling for them, and praying for them in our own way.

I decided I wanted to meet these kids so I started reading stories at SickKids hospital, offering these children even a brief reprieve from their struggles. Lucky for me, they were excited I was there! Reading to the kids has since become a tradition for me. Sadly, I sometimes see familiar faces from one year to the next - children who continue to fight, who haven't been able to return home since the last time I visited. It can be heartbreaking.

But something these kids all have in common, aside from illness and amazing doctors and nurses, is an unwavering sense of hope. You can see it in their sparkling eyes. Once you see it, it's impossible to forget it which is why I return year after year.

This year, as part of our ET Canada Gives Back series and with the support of Warner Brothers, we brought the gang from Happy Feet Two to visit the kids who could make it down from their hospital beds. They were so excited and, even if it was just for a moment, they seemed to forget their troubles.

What you won't see in our story tonight is the amazing hospital staff. They are extraordinary people. They give and give and never stop fighting for these children. It is simply remarkable. It's unfortunate we need it, but we are so very lucky to have SickKids hospital.

If you are looking for a great gift this holiday season that will really make a difference in the lives of these kids, please check out the Get Better Gifts Program (www.sickkidsgetbettergifts.com) and donate today. The children thank you, and so do I.

Love,
Cheryl