How Play Helps Sophia Heal from Pediatric Medical Trauma
Meet Sophia
4-year-old Sophia was diagnosed with leukemia in June 2025 - a moment that shattered her family’s world.
Prior to her diagnosis, Sophia was a healthy, active child, always running around, laughing, and playing. However, her family began to notice concerning signs—Sophia’s gait changed, she cried in pain, and she refused to walk. Sophia’s atypical behaviors led them to seek medical help, and they soon learned that their sweet and vibrant daughter had leukemia.
The months since her diagnosis have been filled with significant challenges for Sophia. Sophia has experienced significant pediatric medical trauma, including painful procedures, taking strong medications with unpleasant side effects, and prolonged hospital stays.
“In the beginning, her hospital experience was terrifying and confusing,” shares Sophia’s mom Kimberly. “She didn’t fully understand why she was there or what was happening to her body. Every needle, every test, seemed like an overwhelming hurdle she had to face.”
The Healing Power of Play
Sophia’s hospital visits are often comprised of long waits and tough moments. So, when Sophia discovered the Starlight Nintendo Switch Gaming Station in the infusion room, she was amazed. She could play Mario Kart, which is such a fun and positive distraction that she once forgot she was there for treatment! Kimberly reminisces how Sophia was feeling in that moment:
“She was laughing, cheering, and totally in the zone. It was once of those moments where I could just watch her be a happy, carefree kid again, even if just for a little while.”
Creating happiness for Sophia, the Starlight Gaming Station is something she looks forward to when she’s at the hospital. She loves playing Mario Kart, and when she plays, she’s distracted by the game and doesn’t feel sick or worried.
“Hospital visits aren’t just about pokes, medicine, and waiting anymore – she [Sophia] knows she’ll get some fun time, too.”
- Kimberly, Sophia's Mom
The happiness Sophia experienced spread to her family as well. Kimberly shares the impact her daughter’s happiness had on her:
“As a parent, it’s a relief to see her experience joy, even in a hospital setting. It reminds me that she’s still a kid, still finding fun in the little things, and that means everything.”
With the right support, Sophia can continue to face her medical journey with courage and determination.
Thousands of hospitalized kids across the US face are facing medical trauma like Sophia. Still, you can help provide them with crucial resources that make the hospital less scary and more fun.
Help kids fight medical trauma with the healing power of play through Starlight programs.
Donate today.
