Hospital hallways in Orlando turned into a fairy tale setting this week as Rapunzel made a surprise visit to AdventHealth for Children. The event brought a much-needed break to young patients and their families through a collaboration between Disney, the Starlight Children’s Foundation, and the hospital.
A Day of Creativity and Smiles
The princess party focused on giving kids a chance to play and use their imaginations. Children participated in several activities inspired by the movie Tangled. They decorated lanterns, colored pictures, and talked with Rapunzel about her friends Pascal and Maximus.
To make the day even more special, kids wore Disney Princess-themed hospital gowns provided by the Starlight Children’s Foundation. These gowns are designed to help children feel brave while they deal with medical treatments.
Edward, the father of one patient, watched his daughter laugh throughout the visit. He noted that the experience allowed her to just be a kid, which he believes is an important part of the healing process.
A Special Connection for the Marbury Family
For four-year-old Azalea Marbury, the visit was a highlight during a difficult time. Azalea is currently undergoing treatment for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia at the facility. As part of the Starlight Families community, she and her parents have a deep connection to the foundation.
The timing of the party was perfect for the family. Azalea’s parents are preparing to run for Team Starlight in the upcoming Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend. Since Starlight is the featured charity for the race, the party felt like a full-circle moment for them.
Azalea’s parents shared that she loves dressing up as a princess. They said the themed gowns and the chance to meet Rapunzel helped her feel more at home and brightened her day.
This visit is part of a 25-year relationship between Disney and the Starlight Children’s Foundation. The partnership focuses on delivering happiness to kids in hospitals through toy deliveries and character visits.
Adam Garone, CEO of Starlight Children’s Foundation, expressed gratitude for the ongoing work with Disney to help kids through the power of play.
Kristi Baker, a senior executive at AdventHealth for Children, emphasized that healing involves more than just medicine. She explained that when a child’s face lights up because a character like Rapunzel enters the room, it helps ease their fears and gives families hope.
Disney continues to support children’s hospitals in Central Florida and around the world, aiming to provide a little magic to families facing their toughest days.
