Smiles were pasted on the faces of children at the Victoria General Hospital (VGH) this week as a handful of their favourite superheroes gave them a nice surprise in the paediatric ward.
This inspiring surprise came about because of a new official partnership made in January between Island Health and Superheroes of Victoria Volunteer Society (SOVVS).
SOVVS is comprised of volunteers who have access to high-quality costumes in order to bring childrens’ favourite comic book and movie characters to life.
The organization visits VGH at least once a month.
“It’s about more than just the excitement,” said Mercedes Elizabeth Howard
“It’s also a lesson in bravery and courage, showing our children that they can face their challenges head-on, just like their heroes.”
Another child’s mother, Kim McCoy Coleman, says she notices a significant emotional change for the good whenever these superheroes visit the paediatric ward.
“The superheroes managed to perk her up in a way I haven’t seen in over a week, maybe even two. It’s as if, amidst the challenges of being in the hospital, she’s found a way to be herself again,” said Coleman.
It isn’t just for the children either. Island Health’s Volunteer Resources and Engagement Manager, Jennifer Doyle, says that whenever she catches a glimpse of a parent who sees the smile on their child’s face, that joy is just as well received as the joy that is intended for the children.
Doyle also says that all superheroes are screened and trained for their roles prior to being involved with any children. They take computer modules and learn about confidentiality, cultural safety, diversity, equity and inclusion.
They are also trained in how to respond to emergencies, infection control practices, wheelchair assistance techniques, among others.
Volunteers say that they get to experience a type of pure joy as well, just the same as the children they are there to cheer up as well as their parents—though they know who the real heroes are.
“It means more than I think any of us can really say to be able to partner with organizations like Island Health doing this work,” said Greg Foster, SOVVS Volunteer Director.
“The hospital staff are the real heroes. We just put on costumes.”
Currently this endeavour only takes place in VGH, but Island Health say they have plans to expand the experience throughout their jurisdiction.
 this week as a handful of their favourite superheroes gave them a nice surprise in the paediatric ward. ){kind=link}