AUGUSTA, Ga. () – In a heartwarming gesture just before Christmas, patients at Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia received a special surprise when the ZayDay Foundation arrived with a bounty of holiday gifts.

On Tuesday, December 23, the foundation delivered an entire truckload of toys and gifts, ensuring that each young patient had something to brighten their day.

Zach Wright, the founder of the ZayDay Foundation, explained the heartfelt motivation behind their generosity. “The ZayDay Foundation was established in memory of my son, Zayden Wright, who sadly passed away in 2018 at this very hospital,” Wright shared. “During his long-term care, there were numerous organizations that showered us with gifts and support. I wanted to join those ranks and give back as a grateful parent.”

Wright expressed how deeply personal this initiative is to him. “Having experienced it firsthand, I understand what these parents are enduring. Spending the holidays in a hospital as a parent is tough, and I empathize with them,” he reflected. “It feels incredibly fulfilling to be able to provide some comfort and joy during such times.”

The community’s backing of this cause also moves Wright. “Even though many people didn’t know Zayden personally, they connected with his story,” he noted. “Their belief in me and the foundation’s mission is truly humbling and inspiring.”

“We distribute these toys across all different units,” said Addie Winkleman, a child life specialist at the hospital. “Children get these toys before and after very scary procedures, you know, when they’re in the hospital and they need stuff to do. We hand them out before surgery and so they get distributed through us as child life specialists. But we distribute them across all units.”

“We walk in with just one of these toys and the kid’s face lights right up, so even one of these toys definitely equals one smile,” she said. “So it is pretty awesome.”

Photojournalist credit: Avery Van Dusen