Hayden's Toy Drive

Hayden's Summer Toy Drive Carnival

2011-05-08T00:31:00.000-07:00

July 23rd is the big day. We are holding a carnival to benefit Hayden's Toy Drive. We are working on getting bouncers, face paining, snow cones and all the fun events of carnival together. Liberty Arts Academy, Hayden's school, is putting this on. Free admission when you bring in a toy to be donated to Phoenix Children's Hospital. We are currently working out the details but are so excited for this new opportunity.

Keep checking back for more information and updates.

July 23rd 10-2

Liberty Arts Academy

On Power Rd just South of Guadalupe

Bring a toy to donate to the hospital and come check out all the fun games!

2011-03-06T14:17:00.001-08:00

My favorite part about the toy drive is the honest, open talks that Hayden and I have after we drop off the toys. It makes it all worth it. This year, as we talked to Hayden, he was able to really express how he was feeling. He has such a caring, big heart. Before I asked, Hayden spoke up and said, "Mom, I feel so good inside. The Holy Ghost is telling me that we are doing a good thing. I know that I am helping kids by collecting toys. When I am in the hospital, I will work harder to get well, if I know that I can choose from the toy closet. I hope that because of these toys, some of the kids in the hospital will choose to try harder to get well. Then, it will be such a good thing that we did the toy drive. I think we should keep doing the toy drive."

My heart was touched. My son was able to express, without help, the feelings that most definitely did come from the Holy Ghost. As we started the toy drive, it was to, in a small way, pay back all those that had helped out with Hayden. Each year, as we drop off the toys, I realize that although, our hearts are in it for the children that are in the hospital and their parents, in the end, our family is ultimately the one that benefits from the toy drive. Our home has the spirit of giving, Hayden is learning the importance of service and giving and right before Christmas, the Holy Ghost and Spirit of Christmas is alive in our hearts.

Our testimonies are strengthened. Our hearts are filled with love and gratitude. I am so thankful for this wonderful opportunity that we have been presented with. We are so very blessed. And, by the way, this is the first year that Hayden has not received a toy from Hayden's Toy Drive... it was his first year without any hospital stays... words cannot express my gratitude.

Hayden's Toy Drive Drop Off

2011-03-06T14:16:00.002-08:00

Suzi, Thomas, Hayden and I all drove out to Phoenix Children's Hospital on December 23rd. It is such a great feeling to drop off the toys. It is so worth it but it does take a tremendous amount of time and work. I will admit that on different days during December I question my sanity and if the toy drive is worth it. When we drop off the toys, there is no doubt in my mind that this is such a great thing for our family.
As we talked with the volunteers at Child Life, we thanked them for the difference they make each day in the life of the children in the hospital. I am so grateful for all they have done for Hayden. Each hospital stay, ER visit and procedure undergone, has been so much easier due to the wonderful, caring and loving staff of PCH. I am so grateful for the little things they do to make the hospital as comforting and less scary as possible. It makes all the difference. I am glad that we can have a small part in paying them back.
As I stood back at the pods, I remembered so many stories that people told, why they donated, why they cared and the difference it made. I realized, standing there, that it isn't about the big stuff, it was the little things, the toy, the smile, the kind pat on the back, it is the little touches that make the biggest difference in these children's lives. As I stood there, I looked at my son and husband and realized that it is the little things in our lives that make the biggest difference, and the hospital definitely has made some of Hayden's health issues more bearable and put such a positive influence in our lives.

Hayden loves the attention. He loves that they ask him about his stays in the hospital, the little things that mean the most to him, and why he wants to help other children. As I watched him speak, I was so impressed. He is becoming so good at articulating his words and explaining why we do this. He understands that he is making a difference. And, he loves the way it makes him feel.
Thanks to all for another very successful toy drive. I am looking forward to hearing the stories about the children that received the toys and the difference it made to them. We are always blessed to get to hear the good. Especially for Hayden's sake, I am very grateful.

2010 Generous supporters

2011-03-06T14:16:00.001-08:00

Hayden's Toy Drive 2010 was very successful. We collected over 2300 toys for Phoenix Children's Hospital. With all of the amazing toys that were donated, we had to rent a U-haul to get all the toys to PCH.
Donations were plentiful and wonderful. We had some of the same people donate and some new ones. We are so thankful to the following organizations that helped so much. Liberty Arts Academy did an entire school toy drive and collected amazing toys with amazing spirit and stories. I cannot express my thanks enough for Hayden attending such a wonderful and caring school. Peoria Accelerated Academy called a couple of days prior and said they had a lot of toys and then Hayden's principal, Ms. Waisel, was AMAZING and drove to Peoria to pick up the toys for me. My cousin, Debbie, organized a toy drive at Advanced Chiropractic in Gilbert. Then we had some amazing and generous donations from individuals.... I would list them but not sure if they want to be individually named. But, we know who you are and are very grateful.

Some of the most touching stories came in this year. Hayden's primary teacher collected money so that toys could be purchased. Aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins all donated generously. We are so thankful for the amazing support we have in trying to provide toys for the children in the hospital. It could not be possible without tremendous donations and the generosity of our loved ones. You are appreciated more than you will ever know.

Collecting for the Toy Drive

2011-03-06T14:15:00.000-08:00

One of the most amazing things to me is collecting the donations from people for Hayden's Toy Drive. I love hearing people's stories, seeing their enthusiasm and watching the joy that comes thru giving. We are so blessed to see the toy drive each year from beginning to end. We know the work but also are blessed to see the true joy in the end.
Each year we have so many phenomenal people that donate so generously. Without such amazing people, there wouldn't be a toy drive. This year, we were given almost $1500.00 to go shopping with. We started at the Disney Store because Hayden had some very specific gifts in mind for the toy drive. The boys in the hospital definitely needed Tron motorcycles, Phinneas and Ferb toys and I knew that a Minnie and a few princesses were needed, as well.

After that we went to a Toys or Us Express. Do you know how great it is to have that much money? It is so exhilarating to just look for what is needed.... crayola wonders, lego sets, little cars, dolls, coloring books, a soft stuffed animal and not worry about the cost, but to just be able to buy what you feel could help lift a child's spirit. There is nothing else like it.

Taking Hayden is such a joy. He is so focused on what the kids could do in bed, what toys the sick kids would agree to get that extra shot for, handle another chemo therapy or be brave enough to go thru surgery for. As we walk thru the store choosing toys, each of those scenarios are brought up. It gives me such an opportunity to talk to Hayden and to teach him. His understanding of working for a greater cause is so clear to him. I am amazed at 9 years old of his understanding and love of other children he has never met. His heart is in it. I love those tender, treasured moments with him as we try to serve to make another's life better. It is something that cannot be explained, only experienced.
As we unload different trips from stores, we label, discuss and talk about how it makes him feel and in what cases he thinks the children will receive these particular toys. It brings such a spirit of giving and Christlike service into our home. The Holy Ghost is present and the feelings are so tender yet overwhelming strong. Usually, I try to identify to Hayden what he is feeling to help him understand. Not this year. As we talked, he said, "Mom, I feel the Holy Ghost so strong right now. He is testifying to my heart that I am doing a good thing. I like this feeling better than when I get presents. Is this what the Savior feels like when he does things for us?" As a mom, I couldn't have had a better feeling. My son has developed a love of Christmas and understands the Spirit of Giving. That is the greatest Christmas present I could have ever been given.
We started this toy drive for the benefit of the sick kids at the hospital. Instead, it has brought such a feeling of love, giving and harmony into our home. I love the lessons that it has taught Hayden and am so grateful for the lessons it has taught.

Hayden's Toy Drive 2010 begins!

2010-11-15T17:59:00.000-08:00

We are collecting toys for Phoenix Children's Hospital. If you have any new, unused toys you would like to donate, please contact me at 602-228-1861. We are looking forward to another successful toy drive this year.

2009 Toy Drive

2009-12-28T18:01:00.001-08:00

Thanks everyone for another successful toy drive. We collected 2,040 toys, stuffed animals and pajamas for the hospital. Phoenix Children's Hospital was thrilled.

I walked in and they gave me a wagon to put our donations in... I laughed and told them that we had a truck, trailer and suv filled with over two thousand toys. They were in awe.

I love delivering the toys. In Hayden's face you can see the excitement!

Phoenix Children's Hospital

2009-12-22T05:34:00.001-08:00

The count is complete. The toy drive is wrapped up for another year. My heart is filled with emotion. The work involved is sometimes overwhelming. But, to feel the peace, joy and love in my heart as the toys are delivered to the hospital, is a feeling I wouldn't trade and outweighs all the work involved.

As we drove to the hospital this morning, Hayden wasn't feeling well and was a little on the grumpy side. As we pulled into the hospital and started unloading toys, his entire countenance changed. He became the most joyful, happy child.

He excitedly helped carry in toys, wide-eyed he explored the toy drop off room for the toys and smiled as he handed the workers the I-pods. As we climbed back in the car, I asked him how he felt, his response simple, "I feel really happy!"

I am reflecting this evening on the events of this toy drive. The happiness it has brought and the sweet Spirit of giving and serving that has been brought into our home. I am amazed by the generosity of people. I am still in awe of some of the people that brought over toys. They gave of themselves and what they had.

I am most touched by the stories people had to offer. The new people I have met. My most touching was a call I received asking if I could help her find Hayden's mom. As I talked to her on the phone, we shared stories of heart surgeries, doctors, therapists and strategies. I was lucky to talk with people about their stories and their children's stories of hope and love.

Our lives have been enriched, uplifted and blessed through another successful toy drive. My heart feels such peace, such love and the true meaning of Christmas. I feel very thankful! And as Hayden put it, "My heart feels so much happier when I give presents than when I get them!" We are thankful to all of those who donated and helped make this another successful year!

Toys R Us

2009-12-22T05:33:00.001-08:00

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to walk into a store with $2200 to spend? Having no requirements of anything to purchase and just being able to shop? IT WAS WONDERFUL!!!

Jake, Brian, Vaughn, and Josh all sent Hayden, Kaylee and I shopping with cash for the toy drive. They were wonderfully generous!

We spent three hours in the store and filled up 6 carts, heaping full with toys for the hospital. It was so cute to watch Hayden and Kaylee. They both would walk up and down the aisles deciding which toys would be most appropriate for the kids in bed. Hayden's top toys for the hospital were Sorry Sliders, backugan and transformers. Kaylee's favorite was a new moon blanket, books and art supplies.

It was so much fun! So memorable! And both kids were incredible and REALLY tried hard to find the perfect gift for the sick kids! I will never forget this moment!

Liberty Arts Academy Toy Drive

2009-12-16T19:10:00.000-08:00

Hayden's school, Liberty Arts Academy, collected 230 toys and stuffed animals for Hayden's Toy Drive. Thank you! Thank you! The kids at the hospital will LOVE them!

Liberty Arts

2009-11-30T13:24:00.000-08:00

Hayden's elementary school, is sponsoring Hayden's Toy Drive this year. For each $5 toy the kids bring in, they are rewarded with $5 in Bulldog Bucks to spend at the school. The kids are loving it and I am so excited the school is embracing the toy drive again this year. They have been WONDERFUL in supporting us.

A shout out to the wonderful PTO president, Michelle Panetta, as she is coming up with all kinds of great ways to support the toy drive. Thanks Michelle!

Update

2009-10-29T14:29:00.000-07:00

In the three years that we have been collecting toys for Phoenix Children's Hospital, we have collected over 3800 toys and over $5600.

We sure appreciate everyone's generosity and support. We are looking forward to another great year and very successful toy drive!

2009 Toy Drive

2009-10-29T12:12:00.001-07:00

We are gearing up and ready to begin Hayden's Toy Drive 2009. We are collecting new, unused toys for Phoenix Children's Hospital. They will also accept used DVD's, video games and video game systems.

Please contact Jerlyn at 602-228-1861 and I will be happy to come pick up any donations.

We are excited to help make this a wonderful Christmas for the children at Phoenix Children's Hospital.

Donations

2008-12-17T04:56:00.000-08:00

We are incredibly grateful to the Arizona Society of Phillipine Health Professionals. We were lucky enough to get to go and pick up toys from Anna DeOcampo this past weekend. They generously collected 89 toys and pajama sets for Phoenix Children's Hospital.

It was amazing being in their home and feeling the excitement and joy that they had in collecting toys and giving to others this time of year.

I am grateful for all the people that I get to meet because of the toy drive. The spirit that was in their home was amazing and the attitude is giving is something that inspired me this wonderful Christmas season.

We appreciate everyone's support, generosity and love during this wonderful time of year.

Hayden's Story

2008-11-13T20:03:00.000-08:00

Hi! I have been getting a lot of requests for Hayden's story.

When Hayden was born, he came out blue and not breathing. It took the doctors several hours before they were able to figure out what was wrong with him. The doctors determined that Hayden had a rare heart condition that required an arterial switch. He had what is referred to as Transposition of the Greater Arteries.

Since Hayden was unable to breathe on his own, he was intubated and started on medication to try to keep him alive. At only 18 hours old, Dr. Teodori performed Hayden's first heart surgery, where they intentionally put a hole in his heart to try to circulate the blood. Then, at just one week old, Hayden had open heart surgery. Hayden was put on heart and lung bypass machines. He had so much swelling and so many complications during the surgery that he did not stabalize for a couple of days. At 10 days old, he was doing a little better and the doctors performed his third surgery. I am still amazed at Dr. Teodori and his ability to switch Hayden's aorta, pulmonary arteries and the coronary arteries that were only 1 1/2 millimeters wide.

On Christmas Eve, Hayden still wasn't breathing or eating on his own. He was really struggling. Josh's son, Dallin, was five years old at the time. He knelt down on Christmas Eve and told Jesus all he wanted for Christmas was for Hayden to get better. Much to our amazement, on Christmas morning, Hayden started breathing. The doctors were able to take some of the tubes out and he started recovering.

It was our Christmas miracle.

On Christmas morning, Santa didn't forget Hayden, or that he was in the hospital. Santa, Mrs. Claus and even one of Santa's special elves, came to personally deliver presents to Hayden and all the other children in the hospital. Sure, Hayden was a baby and didn't realize the significance of Santa personally delivering his Christmas presents, but as a mom, I understood. And, the little 6 year old boy, that was in the room next to Hayden understood. I witnessed first hand what a difference that made in my life, and all the children's lives that were in the hospital. These kids weren't just sick kids. They were excited little boys and girls waking up on Christmas morning. They were kids. They were able to experience the true joy of the season and be giddy and happy.

I couldn't make Hayden or any of the other children in the hospital well. I couldn't give them the wonderful Christmas at home that they all so longed for. But, I had the ability to help make a sick child's Christmas a merry and happy time, even if they are in the hospital. And, for one day, they can just be little boys and girls, waking up to the excitement that surrounds Christmas morning.

I, for one, am grateful for the small part that I can play in making a child's Christmas morning merry. And, I appreciate all the wonderful people that have helped make Hayden's Toy Drive a success. I can assure you, it does make a difference.

Hayden's Toy Drive 2008

2008-11-05T19:02:00.000-08:00

Jodi did an amazing job on this years flyer for Hayden's Toy Drive. We are now collecting toys for Phoenix Children's Hospital. Please call Jerlyn at 602-228-1861 to arrange for me to pick up any donations. We certainly appreciate everyone's support for Hayden's Toy Drive!

Stories from Parents

2008-11-05T18:29:00.000-08:00

We have had some wonderful experiences since we have started the toy drive. I am going to start documenting some of my favorites.

We were in Walmart one day and Hayden was buying toys for the toy drive with money that Grandma Star had given him. The check out lady told Hayden he was one lucky little boy to get so many toys. Hayden spoke up and said, "These aren't for me. These are for the sick kids at the hospital". The lady behind us in line explained that her daughter was in PCH and had received some toys after her operation. It was very comforting to her daughter to receive a new toy after coming out of surgery. She had tears as she hugged Hayden and told him thank you from all the parents of kids in the hospital.

We had a lady that read about Hayden's Toy Drive in the paper and her daughter had just passed away. She brought over armfuls of dolls and stuffed animals to donate to the toy drive. She sat and talked about how her daughter had received all kinds of toys and stuffed animals while in the hospital and how comforting it was to her to sleep with a stuffed toys after having surgeries.

A man called and asked how his children could help out with the toy drive. They decided to do good deeds for neighbors and in lieu of being paid for their efforts, they requested the neighbors donate a toy to Hayden's Toy Drive. They collected toys and brought them over. They added each toy carefully to the pile and told what chores and good deeds they had done to earn each item.

Hayden and Brooklyn had a garage sale to raise money for Hayden's Toy Drive. With the money collected, they were able to go to the store and pick out toys for the children at the hospital. I was amazed as I watched them carefully select toys that were best suited for children laying in bed. I was so impressed as neither asked for things for themselves but selected great things for the sick children. I was so impressed, especially at ages 3 and 5 years old.

My all time favorite was when PCH volunteers asked Hayden last year if he knew he was doing a good thing by collecting toys for the hospital. His reply with sweet, simple and to the point. "Yea, I know... Heavenly Father whispers to my heart that I am doing a good thing". That says it all. We've been so blessed by the toy drive and all the wonderful people we have met through it.

Delivering Toys to PCH

2008-11-05T18:25:00.000-08:00

Thomas, Hayden and I delivered the toys to the helpers at Phoenix Children's Hospital. It took a truck with a trailer and the SUV completely packed to get all the toys and donations to PCH. What a wonderful feeling being able to drop off the toys.

2007 Toy Drive

2008-11-05T18:21:00.000-08:00

Thanks to so many wonderful people that donated toys, 2007 was a huge success. We collect 2049 toys, pajamas and items for Phoenix Children's Hospital.

Hayden in the middle of our donations.

Our family room was packed with toys!

It is hard to describe how many toys there were.

Hayden's Toy Drive 2006

2008-11-05T18:16:00.000-08:00

Hayden's Toy Drive began in 2006, when Hayden was 4 years old. We had been taking toys to the hospital on Hayden's birthday every year just to thank the staff for being so wonderful to Hayden.

Hayden stood up in his preschool class and announced that we were collecting toys for the hospital. Then, Hayden started going around to his grandparents, aunts & uncles, friends, doctors and complete strangers and telling them about the toy drive. That is where it all began.

In the first year of the toy drive, we collected 766 toys and $5610. Pretty good for a 4 year old asking for donations.

Hayden's Toy Drive

2008-08-17T20:52:00.000-07:00

Hayden's Toy Drive is in its 3rd year. It started in 2006. Since Hayden was born with congenital heart disease and had to have open heart surgery in December 2001, we have taken items to the hospital every year on his birthday. In 2006, when Hayden was 4 years old, he started telling people that we were collecting toys for Phoenix Children's Hospital or "my hospital" as he lovingly calls it. We started getting donations from his pre-school class, church, family and friends. The first year that Hayden's Toy Drive was around, we collected 766 toys and raised $5610.00.

In 2007, we expanded the toy drive and the response was even greater. We were thrilled with how many people were willing to donate to the children that were stuck in the hospital over Christmas. Last year we collected 2049 items, including toys, clothing and pajamas. The hospital was thrilled and said that we were the biggest toy drive that did not have corporate sponsers.

We are working on getting 2008 arranged. We are collecting toys all year round. So, if you have any new toys hanging around, we would be happy to come get them. Also, they take used DVD's, books, CD's, video games and video game systems.

We appreciate all the wonderful people out there that have helped to make Hayden's Toy Drive a huge success! Thank you! Thank you!