Pediatric Patients Celebrate Halloween at Inclusive Trunk-or-Treat

Colorful costumes, treat-filled buckets, and welcoming accommodations created fun fall memories.

WHEATON, Ill. — Superheroes, princesses and plenty of treats were  abound at Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital during a trunk-or-treat party for pediatric patients, showcasing thoughtful accommodations that help children of all abilities enjoy Halloween festivities.

The event offered an accessible way for children receiving treatment for a range of physical and developmental differences to celebrate Halloween in an environment designed with their individual needs in mind. Children in costumes enjoyed the event with their physicians, care teams and other volunteers.

“There’s something special about seeing children of all abilities in costume going from trunk to trunk, picking out treats and simply enjoying Halloween fun with their families,” said Larissa Pavone, MD, chief medical officer at Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital. “This event is all about creating a space where every child can join and make memories together.”

Adaptations included accessible stations that children using mobility devices could navigate easily. Stickers and small toys were available for children with feeding differences, and an easy-to-navigate scavenger hunt added to the fun.

 The event is an annual favorite for families of pediatric patients at Marianjoy, many of whom bring siblings to join the fun.

“Kei’anna gets to practice using her communication device, spend time with familiar faces from her care team and enjoy trick-or-treating in a space that’s accessible for her wheelchair,” said Angie Bateman, whose daughter enjoyed the festivities dressed as a farmer. “We’re very grateful she can fully participate.”

 Photos and video capture the moments that made the day special, from costumed children collecting treats to families and staff enjoying Halloween together.

To learn more about rehabilitation services at Northwestern Medicine, visit https://news.nm.org/.

About Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital

As the only acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital in DuPage County, Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital provides comprehensive care for a wide range of injuries and illnesses. Specialized clinical programs include brain injury, neuromuscular, orthopedic, pediatric, spinal cord and stroke rehabilitation.

Through a multidisciplinary approach, Marianjoy combines leading-edge research, advanced technology and holistic care. Care teams develop personalized, patient-guided treatment plans using the latest evidence-based therapies to help patients achieve the best possible outcomes. Marianjoy is ranked No. 2 in Illinois and the Chicago metropolitan area and No. 40 nationally for rehabilitation in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings.
 

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