SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — When you think of Christmas, you probably think of kids running down the stairs and tearing open their presents from Santa. But when your child is in the hospital, Christmas feels a lot different.Â
Ali Peden and her husband Adam Stade have a lot of experience with these hospital holidays. Their daughter, June Dallas, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma when she was 13 months old.Â
"After June passed last year in December, we wanted to give back to the hospital that she loved and was a second home to her and spoil the kids that are up there now for the holidays because we know how hard it is," said Peden.
Like most kids, June loved toys and making friends. Her parents thought a toy drive for children at St. John's Children's Hospital was the perfect way to honor June's legacy.Â
"It makes me feel good as a mom that we're able to continue and people are still gonna know her name and the light that she brought it in to everyone and I hope that her light can keep shining on to other kids who are going through similar situations that she was," said Peden.Â
Related Links
- Three-year-old brings town together for Make-A-Wish parade
- 3-year-old Auburn child passes away after cancer fight
- Springfield family uses story to spread awareness of childhood cancer
The family has set up drop off boxes around Springfield, including at both BJ Grand Salon & Spa locations and at WholeSelf Healing Resilience Center. You can drop off unwrapped presents until November 27th. You can also purchase toys off of the Amazon wishlist.Â
June Dallas with her parents Ali Peden and Adam Stade.
Peden is also organizing a Stuff the Van Event. This is taking place Saturday, November 18 at the Grant Conservatory from 10 - 2 p.m. Participants will be able to take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as enjoy food and fun.Â
"Being a mom myself, I can't imagine what it's like being in the hospital during those holidays," said Shareen Crawford, the general manager at BJ Grand Salon and Spa. "Any little part we can contribute to to help the kids in the family have somewhat of a normalcy around Christmas, is something that we are always going to want to be a part of."
