For families facing hospital stays, the Christmas spirit may feel far away, but at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, the light of the season still finds a way to shine – through events like Good Night Lights.
Six years ago, Lowcountry first responders came up with the idea of gathering emergency vehicles around the children's hospital. When the command is given, they simultaneously turn on their emergency lights to brighten the night sky. From the patients’ hospital rooms, children and their families then wish a good night to the responders on the ground below by waving and blinking their flashlights. Prior to the start of the event, patients receive gift bags, courtesy of the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital staff, Lowcountry first responders and Walmart volunteers. These include the flashlights along with various goodies.
On the final night of Good Night Lights, first responders raise Santa in a tower truck bucket in front of the hospital to bid the children a farewell “Good night!” before he and his elves prepare his sleigh for Christmas Eve.
“Good Night Lights is special because we, as first responders, get to bring joy to the families who are hospitalized during the most magical time of the year. I truly enjoy seeing the excitement of the kids and their families when they realize why all the first responders are at the hospital,” said Sgt. Ariel Polite of the Charleston Police Department.
While Good Night Lights is magical for the children and memorable for first responders across the Lowcountry, hospital employees enjoy this event just as much. Seeing children in the hospital get a glimpse of the holiday spirit during their stay is more than care team members could ask for
“The joy Good Night Lights brings to families who are unfortunately in the hospital during the holidays is immeasurable. We are all committed to healing our patients and families, and the collaboration between the first responders from the numerous communities we serve and the Charleston Police Department, which brings this event to SJCH, demonstrates that commitment. We appreciate the effort it takes to bring this joy to our hospital,” said Mark Scheurer, M.D., chief of Children's and Women's Services for MUSC Health.
What began as a sweet idea has grown into a cherished tradition, and Polite said it’s the children’s excitement that keeps her returning each December.
“The happiness that we can bring during one of the hardest seasons of their lives motivates me to keep coming back and to make each year bigger and better,” said Polite.
The Good Night Light events take place four times throughout December. Remaining dates include Dec. 18 and Dec. 22.
