Story and photos by Dave Ongie
The Christmas Spirit has been alive and well at Niswonger Children’s Hospital during this holiday season.
Last Wednesday saw a pair of donations in honor of a current and former patient. In the morning, over 200 toys found their way under the tree in the lobby thanks to donations from Food City’s Corporate Support Center in Abingdon. The drive was inspired by Gavin Brewer, who has been undergoing treatment at Niswonger for Leukimia.
The afternoon saw the arrival of family and friends of Joshua Adcock, a patient who passed away several years ago. Each year, Adcock’s memory is kept alive by the blankets, stuffed animals and other items that make their way to families of current patients.
Friday featured a parade of therapy dogs that made its way through the halls of the hospital. Also, a donation arrived from Avery County, North Carolina in the back of an 18-wheeler. The Melton family brings a large shipment of toys every year that come through the generosity of people in Western North Carolina.
Donations are still needed and will be accepted between now and Christmas. To donate toys, visit www.NiswongerChildrens.org/wish-list. Also, registries have been set up at Walmart, Target and Toys “R” Us under “Child Life – Niswonger Children’s Hospital” to make it easier on donors. Contact Amanda Ward at (423) 431-6895 for more information.
Family and friends of Joshua Adcock make their annual donation of stuffed animals and blankets to the Niswonger Children’s Hospital. Photo by Dave Ongie
Gavin Brewer surveys the toys that were donated in his honor by employees of Food City. Photo by Dave Ongie
A patient enjoys his visit with Petey during the parade. Photo by Dave Ongie
Santa hitches a ride on Lucy for the therapy dog parade. Photo by Dave Ongie
Petey takes a breather after spreading Christmas cheer. Photo by Dave Ongie
