"It's about more than just the excitement," said Mercedes Elizabeth Howard. The Victoria mother is reflecting on the moment her child's face lit up at the sight of their favorite superheroes walking into the pediatric ward at Victoria General Hospital (VGH).
"It's also a lesson in bravery and courage, showing our children that they can face their challenges head-on, just like their heroes," said Howard.
Formed in January 2024, the partnership between Island Health and Superheroes of Victoria Volunteer Society (SOVVS) - a dedicated group of volunteers who bring to life popular characters from comic books and movies - aims to surprise young patients with visits from various superheroes at least once a month, making their time in the hospital a bit brighter.
Pictured: Superheroes of Victoria Volunteer Society Members
Kim McCoy Coleman, a mother of two, also noticed a significant emotional uplift in her child after seeing the special visitors. "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.
The impact of these visits extends beyond the young patients and their families, touching the hearts of hospital staff as well.
"You feel the shift in the air when the superheroes arrive," said Krista Molia, Island Health Child Life Specialist at VGH. I hope these moments of adventure and laughter become the memories that our young patients take home with them, overshadowing any fear or pain that comes with being in the hospital."
Jennifer Doyle, Island Health Volunteer Resources & Engagement Manager, spoke about the collaboration with heartfelt optimism. "When a superhero walks in, it brightens the entire atmosphere. Whether it’s a patient they visit, a family member who catches a glimpse, or even our staff receiving a little boost in their day, the impact is amazing. When you talk about your day, you get to say, ‘I saw Captain America today.’"
Doyle also explained what goes into preparing the volunteers for their roles.
"Our volunteers are screened and trained. They complete online modules to learn about important topics such as confidentiality, cultural safety, diversity, equity and inclusion, knowing what to do in emergencies, infection control practices, wheelchair assistance techniques, among others. We ensure they are thoroughly equipped to contribute in a meaningful way within a health care environment."
The volunteers take great pride in bringing joy and excitement to children during their hospital stays.
"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."
Doyle, reflecting on the success the partnership has already brought to VGH, views this as just the beginning.
"Starting at VGH was our first step. However, our vision extends far beyond one hospital. We aim to spread this activity across Island Health."
Just like the superheroes they emulate, the team at SOVVS, led by founder Mark Ashfield, is always ready for action. Having visited the hospital regularly since its creation in 2009, the group has been a familiar sight within the walls of VGH. However, this official partnership opens up many more opportunities for collaboration, enhancing the volunteers’ ability to spread joy. While the goal of SOVVS is to bring smiles to VGH pediatric patients at least once a month, their commitment runs much deeper.
"We're volunteers first," said Ashfield. "We're here to help. Put us to work. If you need us, we are just one call away."