Children have very limited control in their daily lives, especially when going through treatment for an illness.
So becoming a superhero or a rock star will allow them to access some sense of power during this potentially scary time.
Acadiana Mall will be making a very special Christmas delivery to Women’s & Children’s Hospital Thursday.
The Mall’s management team will hand deliver 240 Brave Gowns for the hospital’s pediatric patients.
Brave Gowns are not your standard hospital gowns. Not only do they have fun prints that cover the entire front like costumes; they are made out of an amazingly soft fabric that resembles your favorite, comfortable T-shirt or nightgown, according to Trevis Badeax at Women’s and Children.
“They have IV access on both sleeves, access to chest ports and heart monitors, a pocket for a favorite toy or candy and, last but definitely not least, three panels for protection, which will allow the gowns to tie on the side. So, no more having to worry about a draft or the back opening.” Badeaux said.
While the gowns are T-shirt-like soft, they meet all hospital standards and hold up to industrial washings, he said.
The Brave Gown initiative will make Women’s & Children’s the first hospital in Louisiana to have Brave Gowns available for pediatric patients.
“We’re in the business of fashion, comfort and emotional connections. I think most people can agree that when you love what you’re wearing, your spirit’s a little brighter,” said Jamie Stelly, marketing manager of Acadiana Mall. “Our goal is to bring smiles to lots of sweet little faces. We would like to encourage the community to keep the smiles going by supporting the Brave Gowns fund.”
The community can help keep the Brave Gowns initiative going by donating to the Brave Gowns fund, part of the Kites Above Acadiana Kids Fund at the Community Foundation of Acadiana. Call 337-769-4840 to learn more.
“Brave Gowns are another valuable tool available to our team helping children heal from illness, injury and long-term conditions. They inject a little bit of fun, sunshine and comfort into the hospital environment, which can be scary for some children,” said Leona Boullion, interim chief executive officer for Women’s & Children’s Hospital. “Words cannot express how much we appreciate the Acadiana Mall and Brave Gowns for this generous show of love and support for the patients and families we serve.”
