GLENDALE, Ariz. (March 3, 2025) – Banner Children's at Thunderbird is celebrating Child Life month this March, recognizing the incredible impact of its Child Life team, which has supported more than 100,000 pediatric patients and their families over the past 20 years. This year’s celebration also marks the first anniversary of Gumby, the beloved facility dog who provides comfort and emotional support alongside the hospital’s Child Life specialists.
Since its inception, the Child Life program at Banner Children’s at Thunderbird has been key element for educational and emotional support to young patients facing medical treatments, surgeries, and challenging circumstances, including the loss of a loved one. The team of 10 Child Life specialists works closely with children and their families, ensuring that each patient’s hospital experience is as stress-free as possible.
“This small but mighty team makes an enormous impact on the hospital experience for our young patients and their families,” said Dr. Nathalie Petein, a physician in palliative care at Banner Children’s at Thunderbird. “They provide invaluable support during some of the most difficult moments, helping children cope with fear, pain, and loss. Their presence is also a tremendous resource for the medical team, allowing us to provide more holistic care.”
One of the highlights of this year’s celebration is the first anniversary of Gumby, the facility dog who has quickly become a cherished member of the hospital team. Gumby works alongside Child Life specialists, offering comfort through gentle companionship, easing anxiety during treatments, and bringing moments of joy to patients facing medical challenges.
“I am incredibly proud of our Child Life team and the profound impact they have on our pediatric patients and their families every single day,” said Wendy Pauker, director of Child Life at Banner Children’s at Thunderbird. “Their dedication, compassion, and expertise help turn moments of fear and uncertainty into opportunities for comfort, understanding, and resilience. Celebrating Child Life month and Gumby’s first anniversary is a wonderful way to recognize the heart and soul they bring to our hospital.”
Banner Thunderbird Medical Center in Glendale, Ariz., specializes in heart care, surgical services, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency and trauma care, behavioral health, cancer care, rehabilitation and pediatrics, including the West Valley’s only pediatric intensive care unit, pediatric Emergency department and Level III neonatal intensive care unit. Banner Thunderbird also operates a Level I Trauma Center for patients ages 15 and older. The hospital is part of Banner Health, a nonprofit health system with 33 hospitals in six states. For more information, please visit bannerhealth.com/thunderbird.
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