PHX Reporter

Banner Children's at Thunderbird in Glendale, Arizona, is observing Child Life Month this March. The celebration highlights the significant contributions of its Child Life team, which has assisted over 100,000 pediatric patients and their families over the past two decades. This year also marks the first anniversary of Gumby, a facility dog who provides comfort and emotional support alongside the hospital’s Child Life specialists.

The Child Life program at Banner Children’s at Thunderbird plays a crucial role in offering educational and emotional support to young patients undergoing medical treatments, surgeries, and other challenging situations such as bereavement. The team consists of 10 Child Life specialists who work closely with children and their families to ensure a less stressful hospital experience.

“This small but mighty team makes an enormous impact on the hospital experience for our young patients and their families,” said Dr. Nathalie Petein, a physician in palliative care at Banner Children’s at Thunderbird. “They provide invaluable support during some of the most difficult moments, helping children cope with fear, pain, and loss. Their presence is also a tremendous resource for the medical team, allowing us to provide more holistic care.”

A highlight of this year's celebration is Gumby's first anniversary as part of the hospital team. Gumby works with Child Life specialists to offer comfort through companionship, reduce anxiety during treatments, and bring joy to patients facing medical challenges.

“I am incredibly proud of our Child Life team and the profound impact they have on our pediatric patients and their families every single day,” said Wendy Pauker, director of Child Life at Banner Children’s at Thunderbird. “Their dedication, compassion, and expertise help turn moments of fear and uncertainty into opportunities for comfort, understanding, and resilience. Celebrating Child Life month and Gumby’s first anniversary is a wonderful way to recognize the heart and soul they bring to our hospital.”

Banner Thunderbird Medical Center specializes in various services including heart care, surgical services, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency care, trauma care, behavioral health services, cancer care rehabilitation services along with pediatrics that includes West Valley's only pediatric intensive care unit among others. It operates under Banner Health which runs 33 hospitals across six states.