The holidays are a time that beckons everyone home. But for seriously ill kids, that journey home isn’t an easy one. Many children with long hospital stays embrace art as an outlet for creative expression—and for these patients, it’s also a way to spread joy. Inspired by their time at BC Children’s, Cohen, Hallie, Isabella and Gabriella have generously shared their creations with our incredible community this festive season.

Cohen (age 7, cardiology)

The day after Cohen was born, his parents, Angela and Emery, were devastated to learn he had critical congenital heart defects, including reversed arteries. Airlifted to BC Children’s Hospital, Cohen’s condition worsened as his oxygen levels dropped dramatically. At just days old, he underwent a 4.5-hour life-saving surgery. Two weeks later, the family returned home to Kamloops, relieved but also aware this was just the beginning of Cohen’s journey.

Now seven, Cohen is a vibrant, creative, and energetic boy who loves playing sports with his brothers, Nash and Quinn. His journey with congenital heart disease will be lifelong, but with the support of BC Children’s Hospital specialists, he’s thriving. Angela reflects on the experience with gratitude, sharing that it’s given her family a deeper appreciation for life and the little things that matter most.

Hallie (age 5, bone marrow transplant)

Hallie is proof that heroes come in all sizes. At just four years old, she saved her younger sister Navy’s life by donating her bone marrow. Navy’s journey began with a life-threatening liver infection and a diagnosis of Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD), a rare immune condition. She endured weeks in the pediatric intensive care unit and underwent chemotherapy to prepare for the transplant.

Thanks to Hallie’s selfless act and donor-supported programs like Pediatric IV Outpatient Therapy (PIVOT), Navy’s family could continue her treatments at home, spending precious time together during her recovery. Today, Navy is thriving—98% cured with her sister’s cells—and the family is deeply grateful for the care and innovation that made this possible.

Donor generosity fuels life-saving treatments, programs, and hope for families facing unimaginable challenges. Hallie and Navy’s story is a testament to the incredible impact you make. Thank you for being part of their journey.

Isabella and Gabriella (age 7 & age 10, oncology)

Throughout Isabella’s cancer treatment, the support of BC Children’s teams and the love of her family has been crucial to her care. Her dad, Brent, describes the moment leading up to Isabella’s tumor removal surgery this fall as their “Everest”—an overwhelming challenge filled with uncertainty. As Isabella prepared for a lengthy procedure, her older sister Gabriella remained her confidant and biggest cheerleader during these difficult moments. Isabella, ever the jokester, kept spirits high, even making light of her scar, calling it a “legendary” symbol of her bravery.

Brent recalls Isabella’s determination, sharing that she was fearless about the surgery. Even during intense moments, like her long recovery in the PICU, her character shone through—sticking her tongue out with the ventilator in place.

Art therapy brought both girls moments of joy and creativity. Gabriella, inspired by the work of the Child and Youth Therapeutic Services Team at BC Children’s, now aspires to become an art therapist. Their days in the hospital were filled with art projects, like melting crayons into unique designs, thanks to the child life team, who provided them with the tools and support to express their emotions. Pet therapy, too, helped bring smiles and comfort, especially for Isabella during the hardest moments.

Now, as Isabella continues her treatment, the bond between her and her family remains unbreakable. They are taking things day by day as they approach the holidays. Although they aren’t sure if they will be at the hospital or home this holiday season, they know that together they can navigate each hurdle together.

Thank you, Cohen, Hallie, Isabella and Gabriella, for making the holidays extra bright.