​Shelly

I just wanted to share a short story with you about how your organization has effected our lives. My name is Shelly and my daughter is a patient at Texas Children’s. I recently was asked to do a quick interview with Garrett at the annual Stuff the Sleigh event, where I thanked donors for their generosity. It was impromptu and had I really thought about what I was going to say it would of went more like this. Two years ago we were introduced to Stuff the Sleigh at their Christmas Party. Not knowing what to expect the moment we entered the event we were greeted with such warmth from the team and volunteers. What they were unaware of was this was the first outing inside in a public space since my daughters diagnosis that we had taken her to. Weakened immune systems and neutropenia become the new normal with a Cancer child. I remember saying a quick prayer at the clinic that her ANC would be high enough for us to attend. At the party she got to see Santa something I was not sure she would get to do that year and she also enjoyed the Christmas Carols and played a quick game of duck duck goose! To a parent it meant everything to see her smile and feel somewhat like a normal family if only for a moment. I can tell you when something like this disease rocks your world even the smallest accomplishments can bring you to tears of joy, thinking that your child may never have been at that point . As the event came to an end and our belly’s full and our spirits high, we were given a gift which left us speechless at just how much generosity strangers can possess. At the time we did not know how much this single gift would impact our daughters life. We were blessed with an I pad and it has been the only thing that distracted our daughter through many painful procedures she had to endure, countless hospital stays, and a way to get her to eat when nothing tasted good from the chemo. It was indeed her happy place, her retreat when she was trying to block out all the unpleasant things going on. Her nurses were also able to communicate with her through it and gain their trust by being involved in what she was watching. The holiday’s are supposed to be full of joy, warmth, and a general feeling of peace and good will toward men. On behalf of myself and countless other families you have touched thank you from the bottom of our hearts for displaying this and more.
Merry Christmas.

Susan Myers Eyre, Child Life Activity Coordinator

​Dear Garrett,
On behalf of the Child Life Department at Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus, I would like to thank you and Stuff the Sleigh for the donation of toys and games for the patients and families in the Cancer and Hematoma Center at West Campus. In addition to patients receiving gifts during the holidays, some patients who are hospitalized or visiting the clinics on their birthdays will receive a toy as a birthday gift. Still other items will be used to acknowledge the accomplishments of patients who willingly and bravely cooperate during difficult or painful procedures.
Because of donors like you and with the support of our community, the Child Life Department is better able to alleviate stress and anxiety, promote positive coping, and create special moments for our patients and families.
It was a pleasure to meet you Garrett. Thank you again for taking time during a very busy season to show compassion for the patients of Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus.

Keely & Jeff

​Stuff the Sleigh, Thank you so much for your gift to Dustin. We appreciate it more than you know. It’s perfect timing for the holidays and also for all our travel expenses – in state and out of state to Michigan for his treatments! We thank you for your help and appreciate this organization! Dustin is a fighter and is staying strong. God Bless.

Sarah

​Dear Kelli, Garrett and my kiddos — thank you so much for all the love, prayers and support you have given me over the years but especially now!! Your card and gift is so thoughtful and wonderful! Thank you so much! Your family is so special to me.

Haley

Ashmore Family, what a sweet surprise to open my mail and see your names, (excuse me, autographs) with our dinner too! Make. My. Day. We miss you all so much and hope-hope-hope to see you so very soon. You all are our best. Love you like crazy.

​Chance and Wendy

​Thank you for all you are doing for Kurt! I wish we could give more because he so deserves it! Please keep us updated on the progress of him getting the van!

​The Schuler Family

May your kindness be returned to you in the same beautiful way it was offered. Your generosity and support are greatly appreciated and will always be remembered. I am so sorry that it has taken me so long to thank you for making a huge difference for our family this past Christmas. We had no idea that we would be so spoiled on that our kids would have such a wonderful holiday. They all absolutely loved their gifts. Lucy sleeps with her stuffed unicorn and Ross plays with his superhero Trio set daily. Julia, the baby, calls bath time “bubble” because of her Leap Frog bath bubble toy. Additionally, all of the gift cards have really impacted our budget these past few months. I cannot begin to tell you how much we appreciate all of your efforts and thoughtfulness. Thank you for making us feel so supported and loved. Thank You!