Companions in Courage gives lift to pediatric patients

The Companions in Courage Foundation is providing hospitals with laptop computers and online content to help young patients get through a lonely time.

The effort, from the nonprofit founded by hockey hall of famer Pat LaFontaine, is aimed at keeping hospitalized kids motivated on their path to recovery in this challenging COVID-19 environment.

Most hospitals have either restricted or severely limited visitors, including parents and siblings, from seeing patients. And since more young patients than ever are restricted to their rooms, Companions in Courage has been able to provide hospitals with donated Chromebooks and Pixel Slates so that patients can stay connected to those they love.

In addition, the foundation created an online library of video content on its YouTube channel containing videos featuring athletes, celebrities, astronauts and engineers, providing hours of entertainment and education to patients who are isolated and alone.

Companions in Courage boosted its efforts after recognizing that Child Life teams at hospitals across the country have been decimated by staff who have tested positive or who have been exposed to COVID-19 and are required to take leave for 14 days of self-quarantine.

LaFontaine thanked people and businesses that donated to make the initiative possible.

“There has never been a better time to reflect that no child in the fight for life or health should ever have to go through it alone,” LaFontaine said.