Caring for a child with a medically fragile condition is a life changing event and comes with joys and struggles that few others are able to relate to.  Whether a family is still in shock from the diagnosis or has adjusted into a new family routine, we understand the complex and emotional journey that they are traveling.  Our goal is to provide support and encouragement in a cheerful and positive way and we are able to accomplish this through our sMiles 4 Families Program!  This program was inspired by the love and kindness that Samantha’s family was shown by others throughout their journey with her.

Some ways we are providing support to these precious families and/or medical teams is through

• HOPE Binders:  We provide these binders, at no cost, to the medical team to hand out at the intake meetings with each family.  These binders are given to help them adjust to living with a new diagnosis.  This binder contains tips and suggestions that other families in similar situations have found practical and helpful.
• Kaitlyn’s Keepsake Memory Boxes:  Some families choose to leave the hospital and take their child home near the end of their child’s life.  Through our Kaitlyn’s Keepsakes outreach, we give these families end of life memory making boxes that provide these families the opportunity to make end of life memories with their child.  These are provided at no cost to the families, hospice providers and medical teams.
• Angel Care Kits: Each kits contain soft, handmade washcloths, softly colored hand towels, bath wash, lotion, tissues and a keepsake envelope for a lock of hair.  Immediately after a child passes away, a kit is give to the family so that they may give a final bath to their child.  In a cold and sterile hospital, we strive to help make this intimate moment as caring and as dignified as possible.  These are a gift and are provided at no cost to the hospitals, programs or families.

Angel Care Kit