Saskatoon mother giving away stuffed dogs and children’s books at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital – Saskatoon | The Canadian News

A Saskatoon mother has written a children’s book that she hopes will encourage the children at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital to be brave this Christmas.

Patricia Daenckaert is the author of Milo’s Bowling Ball Adventure, a story about a boy whose favorite activity goes wrong, takes him to the hospital and causes him to turn to his faith to become brave.

“We want to be able to let the children know that they are in our hearts, in our thoughts and in our prayers this Christmas,” Daenckaert said.

The book is dedicated to the nurses, doctors, and healthcare workers whom Daenckaert describes as the “true superheroes of our world.”

Saskatoon’s mother-of-two also ordered hundreds of stuffed dogs with the image of Milo’s dog in the story. She is selling a pack of books and dogs for just over $ 20, keeping none of the proceeds, and using the money to pay for a copy of the book and a children’s dog at the children’s hospital.

“Just to bring a smile to a child’s face,” he said.

The effort is, in part, the result of your family’s experience. In 2006, her younger sister, Shantelle, was diagnosed with bone cancer in her ankle.

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“He had to undergo chemotherapy and lost his hair, and then in the end, his foot had to be amputated,” Daenckaert said.

“It was a very difficult time for us as a family.”

During Shantelle’s treatments, Daenckaert said her family benefited from gifts from other members of the community. The blankets and other items offered comfort in the stressful hospital environment.

“It meant a lot to us and a lot to her when she was a child in the hospital,” Daenckaert said.

In a statement, staff at the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation expressed their gratitude, but warned others about donating items, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While some item donations may be accepted, they must meet strict infection guidelines to ensure the health and safety of patients,” said Kristina Konchak, hospital coordinator and manager of community engagement.

“These include only new items in their original packaging and / or individually cellophane sealed items that are shipped directly from the manufacturer.”

Daenckaert’s toy and book drive has received foundation approval, with packages now available for purchase online.