Holidays in the Hospital: Starlight Kid Holdyn

When he was just four years-old, Holdyn was diagnosed with an aggressive form of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and spent six months in the hospital.

Holdyn’s mom, Sarah, said she felt like she was in a terrible nightmare after learning about his diagnosis. “Until you hear the words your child is sick, I never dreamed it would be me,” said Sarah.

Despite the reality and severity of it all, she and her family still could experience joy.

“Holdyn was pretty spoiled when he was at the hospital because we became like family,” Sarah said. “Child life specialists would always make sure he had a new coloring book or crayons or a Batman figurine when he showed up.”

Due to his ongoing treatments, Holdyn spent two Christmases at Cabell Huntington Hospital in West Virginia. The holiday season can be an especially tough time for a seriously ill kid. Starlight Gaming and Starlight Deliveries were one small way to bring normalcy to Holdyn and his family.

Holdyn’s family, including his two brothers, stayed in the Ronald McDonald House of Huntington, W.V. during his treatment.

In addition to providing Starlight programs, the incredible staff at Ronald McDonald House also worked to give Holdyn a special Christmas. One year, after hearing how much he wanted a bicycle, the RMCH staff made his Christmas dreams come true. Holdyn had a bike waiting for him under the tree that Christmas!

“He had more presents in the hospital than he did at home,” said Sarah.

Now Holdyn is nine years old and has been in remission for two years. He has routine check-ups, but he’s a thriving little boy!

Donate now to give happiness and you can help give toys, crafts and other fun items to hospitalized kids.