In the heart of Marshfield, Wisconsin, the Marshfield Children's Hospital is transforming the traditional Halloween experience into a truly magical and inclusive celebration. This annual event, known as the Halloween Spooktacular, has become a cherished tradition that brings joy and comfort to families facing unique challenges.

Embracing the Spirit of Halloween with Compassion and Care

A Safe Haven for Families

For many families, the bustling energy and sensory overload of traditional trick-or-treating can be overwhelming, especially for children with special needs. The Marshfield Children's Hospital's Halloween Spooktacular provides a safe and welcoming environment where these families can celebrate the holiday without the added stress. Gillian Jackson, a parent of an autistic child, expressed her gratitude for the event, stating, "Our daughter's autistic, so kind of going out and having all the flashing lights and everything is a little overwhelming, so this is a very close-knit thing we can do where she can feel safe and comfortable."

Decorating with Delight

The hospital's staff goes above and beyond to transform the facility into a spooktacular wonderland. Kristen Hoese, a Certified Child Life Specialist at Marshfield Children's, shared, "These departments came and they decorated and they dressed up themselves and they do it all for the kids." The dedication and creativity of the hospital staff ensure that every corner of the building is filled with festive decorations and costumed characters, creating a truly immersive experience for the young patients and their families.

Fostering Meaningful Memories

The Halloween Spooktacular is more than just a fun event; it's an opportunity for families to create lasting memories. Gillian Jackson expressed her appreciation for the hospital's efforts, saying, "We just want to say thank you to the entire hospital and everything, having this event for some of the kids who can't go out or are too overwhelmed or too medically complex." For these families, the Spooktacular provides a chance to celebrate the holiday in a way that is both joyful and manageable, leaving them with cherished memories to hold onto.

Reminding Healthcare Professionals of Their Purpose

The Halloween Spooktacular not only benefits the families who attend but also serves as a reminder to the hospital staff of why they do what they do. Kristen Hoese shared, "Events like this remind hospital workers why they do it." Seeing the smiles and laughter of the children and their families reinforces the importance of the hospital's mission to provide compassionate care and create positive experiences for their young patients.

A Tradition of Inclusivity and Celebration

The Marshfield Children's Hospital's Halloween Spooktacular has become a cherished tradition that embodies the true spirit of the holiday. By creating a safe and inclusive environment, the hospital ensures that every child, regardless of their unique needs, can experience the joy and wonder of Halloween. This annual event is a testament to the hospital's commitment to providing exceptional care and fostering meaningful connections with the families they serve.