You can make hospital a happy place for seriously ill children

Zack's story

Five-year-old Zack's mum describes him as "the kindest, most caring kid, with the biggest heart."  

 Zack had just started his very first week of school when he received a shocking cancer diagnosis and began treatment immediately.  

 "A cold wave went through my body, and I went into a panic", recalls Taylor. "I absolutely broke down inside. I've never cried a cry like that in my life."   

 The treatment had severe and immediate effects on Zack. He gained weight, lost his hair, and became extremely angry "about everything," says Taylor. He missed playing with his sisters and friends, and the frequent blood tests and procedures required to save his life really took their toll.  

Thankfully, Captain Starlight brought laughter, fun and happiness back into Zack's life. During a visit, they saw Zack's unlikely friend…his IV pole, used to hold his medicines, nicknamed "Sausage!" Instead of ignoring it, the Captains embraced it. They dressed "Sausage" up, making Zack erupt in laughter.  

"We hadn't seen him that happy in a long time," said his dad, Dion. 

Along with Captain Starlight's ward visits, Zack loved to have fun with his sisters in the Starlight Express Room. Although they couldn't be at home together, the siblings could play and laugh together, connecting again as a family after Zack's time in isolation.   

 Zack's parents will be forever thankful for the happiness Starlight has brought to their family.  

 "Starlight creates the only bit of happiness Zack gets at the hospital. Knowing there's a place he can have fun is huge. It gives him the opportunity to just be a kid – his face just lights up! Starlight is such a source of happiness. It's important that places like this exist," says Taylor.