Our team of 14 arrived in the morning to Shaare Tzedek Hospital. It took a little longer than expected to get there...traffic seems to be a problem all over the world. We meet our contact Audrey on the street as the entrance to the hospital was under renovation. Our team walked from the street with our 7 donation boxes and the performers with their props and costumes. We could hardly wait to get in and meet the children as we approached the entrance. Our guide Yaniv also jumped right in enthusiastically and joined us! First, we headed to the day surgery area and set up the beading area in the crafting/playroom. A team of 4 stayed there and another team went to the Pediatric dialysis unit to set up. It was amazing we had a big enough team to craft in more than one area and were able to provide a distraction for so many kids.

The Ballerina’s, Doo Doo the Clown and Aaron Matthews went to get in their outfits.

Then the real magic began...the kids and many parents began to fill the rooms and amazing bracelets were created with stunning beads that were generously donated to Crafting for a Cure for moments just like this. Many of the children started their creations then left for their treatments and then returned often with IV poles to complete them. I was doing the finishing touches on one of the brackets and when I looked up most of the children had gone to the hall waiting area where the ballerinas were performing their dances and then teaching the children a few graceful moves. Then there was lots of noise and Doo Doo and Aaron Matthews had the children laughing and cheering. The performers also did bedside visits several of these kids were receiving treatments at this time and their sad faces lite up. To me this is what Crafting for a Cure is all about...having families of all walks of life without discrimination between Religion, Race, Gender and Financial Means all crafting and dancing together in total peace. This truly is heartwarming and gives me hope.

I have been volunteering with Crafting for a Cure for almost 20 years and I have to say being at Shaare Tzedek Hospital is truly a one of a kind experience. Everyone is so warm and appreciative for all we do. Almost immediately after seeing the amazing products we have brought for them the staff is taking products to use right away. It is an indescribable feeling!

I am so lucky to have been given this opportunity to brighten these amazing people’s day.

Looking forward to bring smiles to children everywhere!

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