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Pediatric patients at Franciscan Health Crown Point in Indiana have received a donation of stuffed animals and blankets to enhance their hospital experience. The donation was made by The Eva Martin Project, which provided 724 new stuffed animals, 292 pediatric blankets, and 59 baby blankets. The total value of the donation is $7,596. Each item includes a tag with the organization's logo and a QR code with a personal message on the back. These tags also contain wildflower seeds intended for planting.
The Eva Martin Project is based in Baroda, Michigan, and honors the memory of Eva Martin, who passed away at age three following a swimming pool accident. Founded by her parents Rick and Rebekah Martin, the organization conducts fundraisers twice annually to support this cause.
Rebekah Martin stated, "Our mission for The Eva Martin Project, after losing our sweet Eva, who found such comfort in stuffed animals and blankets, is to now carry her love forward by bringing that same warmth she found to children in hospitals." She added that they aim to share Eva's legacy by spreading light and happiness.
Maxine Moore, RN and nursing manager for Franciscan Health Crown Point's pediatric unit commented on the impact of these donations: "They're worried and it brings peace and comfort to them and their families in what is often a high-stress situation." She expressed gratitude towards the Martin family for their generous contribution.
In July 2024, Franciscan Health Crown Point partnered with Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago to add a Lurie Children's pediatric hospitalist to serve young patients admitted there. This collaboration ensures comprehensive care close to home for children from Northwest Indiana.
The partnership between Lurie Children’s Hospital and Franciscan began when Lurie neonatologists started staffing Franciscan Health Crown Point's Level III neonatal intensive care unit in 2022.
