Parkview Warsaw’s emergency department recently received a donation from “Ryan’s Case for Smiles.”

WARSAW — Going to the emergency room can be an overwhelming experience for anyone, but especially for young children. Parkview Warsaw’s ER department has found one more way to bring comfort to its smallest patients by partnering with an organization that provides personalized pillowcases for youngsters.

The group, Ryan’s Case for Smiles, has chapters located throughout the United States, including a local chapter in Fort Wayne who has provided pillowcases for Parkview Warsaw’s ER.

“We’re so happy to be partnering with Ryan’s Case for Smiles,” said Tracey Williams, emergency department manager, Parkview Warsaw. “It’s wonderful that volunteers are willing to donate their time and talent to bring comfort to a child during what can be a scary time.”

Nicole DeRose, chapter president, explained that the organization began 10 years ago in Philadelphia after pediatric cancer patient Ryan Kerr asked his mother to sew a pillowcase for every child on his hospital floor. Since that time, Ryan’s Case for Smiles has established chapters in every state in the U.S. Volunteers answer the call to sew pillowcases for youngsters throughout the year. The brightly colored pillowcases, usually featuring a popular cartoon character or fun kid-friendly print, are then distributed in pediatric wings and ER departments.

“The pillowcases give kids an emotional boost and remind them how much they are cared for,” said DeRose. “We’re so glad to bring that sense of comfort to the littlest patients at Parkview Warsaw.”

For more information on Ryan’s Case for Smiles organization, see the charity’s website at www.caseforsmiles.org.