Disney and Starlight Children’s Foundation teamed up with AdventHealth for Children in Orlando to bring a princess-themed celebration to young patients at the hospital.
Rapunzel made a special appearance at the event, greeting patients with hugs, plush toys and interactive activities. Children decorated lanterns, colored artwork and shared stories from Rapunzel’s adventures, turning hospital hallways into a creative, joyful space.
Through Starlight Children’s Foundation, patients also received Disney Princess-themed Starlight Hospital Gowns inspired by Disney heroines, designed to help kids feel brave and empowered during their hospital stays.
A Full Circle Moment for One Family
Among the patients was four-year-old Azalea Marbury, who receives treatment at AdventHealth for Children for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Azalea and her family are part of the Starlight Families community, which supports children and their families beyond the hospital setting.
Adding to the significance of the day, Azalea’s parents will be running for Team Starlight during the upcoming Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, where Starlight Children’s Foundation is the celebrated charity for the race.
“Azalea loves dressing up like a princess, so with the Starlight hospital gowns she gets to express herself and feel a little more at home,” her parents said. “Events like today just brighten her day. She gets to dress up, have fun, and meet Rapunzel. She gets to be a normal kid again.”
25 Years of Disney and Starlight Partnership
The visit is part of a 25-year partnership between Disney and Starlight Children’s Foundation, bringing comfort and imagination into hospitals through Disney-themed hospital gowns, toy deliveries and character experiences.
“We’re honored and grateful to have a longstanding relationship with Disney in helping us advance our mission of delivering happiness to seriously ill kids and their families through programs that unleash the power of play,” said Adam Garone, CEO of Starlight Children’s Foundation.
“At AdventHealth for Children, healing goes beyond medicine. When Rapunzel steps into a room and a child lights up, you can feel the power of joy,” said Kristi Baker, senior executive officer of AdventHealth for Children. “Moments like these bring light, ease fear, and strengthen hope for families.”
Source: Disney Parks Blog
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