Airmen bring Halloween to Children's Hospital Colorado

by Senior Airman Christopher Gross
460th Space Wing Public Affairs

10/31/2012 - AURORA, Colo. -- More than 10 volunteers from Buckley Air Force Base, Colo., brought Halloween spirit to children at Children's Hospital Colorado Oct. 29 because going door-to-door trick or treating isn't an option for many of them.

Hand painting, mummy wrapping and a craft table were among the activities available for the approximately 50 children who attended.

Kathleen McBride, the hospital's director of volunteers, said her staff and the children appreciated Team Buckley members made time to visit them as some of the children won't be able to leave the hospital on Halloween.

"They always look forward to these activities because it allows them to leave their rooms to socialize and participate in activities," McBride said.

Numerous parents accompanied their children during the fun-filled afternoon.
"I think it's awesome that people can take time out of their busy schedule to come here and help with the children and to serve the community," said Bryce Hubble, whose daughter, Mikayla, had her appendix removed.

Mikayla said she was excited for the day's events, and her favorite part was making a spider web at the crafts table.

April Dobson, a volunteer from the 460th Operations Group, said she believes it's important people don't lose perspective of how critical it is to help others.
"I think it's always good to give back," said Dobson. "It allows us to see the needs of others before ourselves."

Dobson said the feeling of seeing a child smile was amazing because someone went out of their way to make them happy.

"It's just amazing, the enjoyment you get out of it -- (seeing) the kids happy from what you're doing. I think a lot of time it's important for them to see there are adults that are willing to take time out of their schedules when it's not required," Dobson said.