Representatives from The Eva Martin Project donated hundreds of stuffed animals and blankets for pediatric patients at Franciscan Health Crown Point last week. Pictured are (l-r) Maxine Moore, RN, nursing manager of the pediatric unit; Rick Martin, Sr.; Rick Martin, Jr., vice president of The Eva Martin Project; Lucas Martin; Rebekah Martin, president of The Eva Martin Project and Sister Benedicta, mission services coordinator at Franciscan Health Crown Point. (Photo provided, Franciscan Health)
In Lake County, Franciscan Health Crown Point has received a donation of more than 700 stuffed animals and nearly 300 blankets to help comfort children who are hospitalized. Representatives from The Eva Martin Project donated 724 new stuffed animals, 292 pediatric blankets and 59 baby blankets to the hospital. Each item had a tag with the organization’s logo and a QR code with a personal message on the back. The tags themselves contain wildflower seeds and are intended to be planted. A news release from Franciscan Health said the nonprofit, headquartered in Baroda, Michigan, provides the items to hospitals as a way to honor the memory of Eva Martin, who died at the age of 3 after a swimming pool accident. The Eva Martin Project was founded and is managed by Eva’s parents, Rick and Rebekah Martin, who coordinate fundraisers for the items twice a year.
“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,” said Rebekah Martin, who serves as the organization’s president. “We continue to share her legacy by spreading light and happiness, the same as she brought us.”
Healthcare providers at Franciscan Health Crown Point know how seemingly simple items like these can bring a sense of normalcy for pediatric patients and their families during medical procedures. “They’re worried and it brings peace and comfort to them and their families in what is often a high-stress situation,” said Maxine Moore, RN, nursing manager for Franciscan Health Crown Point’s pediatric unit. “They get to take them home with them and sometimes bring them back if they return. We thank the Martin family for this generous gift.”
