We have an opportunity to engage in positive and meaningful ways with our patients

Young patients with sickle cell disease now receive a free book each time they interact with a provider at the Bronson Pediatric Hematology and Oncology clinic and when they are hospitalized at Bronson Children’s Hospital. The Sickle Cell Story Club collection includes a variety of books that feature a main character of color and also meet the child’s interest and reading level. Books in multiple languages have been purchased to ensure children receive a book written in their first language.

Dr. Kirsten Bonifacio, psychologist at the clinic, introduced the program at Bronson. “Through this project, we have an opportunity to engage in positive and meaningful ways with our patients. We can support them in building home libraries that include books with characters that look like them,” explains Bonifacio. “Our patients are already loving the program, looking forward to their next visit and planning for what book they might choose. That is what it is all about. Making connections and supporting the overall well-being of our patients.”