National Hope for Henry Day: A Beacon of Hope for Sick Children

National Hope for Henry Day is an annual observance dedicated to supporting and uplifting children battling severe illnesses. It aims to remind these children that their health challenges should not prevent them from enjoying life’s joys. This day also encourages communities to come together to bring smiles, hope, and happiness to these brave young souls.

Quick Facts

• When is it? October 25
• Tagged as: Children’s Health, Charity, Awareness
• What’s the hashtag? #HopeForHenryDay
• When was it founded? 2019
• Who founded it? Laurie Strongin and Allen Goldberg, inspired by their son Henry Strongin Goldberg

History of National Hope for Henry Day

The day was created by the Hope for Henry Foundation, established in 2003 in memory of Henry Strongin Goldberg. Henry was a courageous child who faced a rare genetic disorder, Fanconi Anemia, with remarkable cheerfulness and resilience. Despite his illness, he embraced life fully, inspiring his parents to create this foundation after his passing in 2002. The foundation focuses on making hospital experiences less stressful and more joyful for sick children through innovative programs and events.

Timeline of National Hope for Henry Day

• 1995: Henry Strongin Goldberg is born.
• 2002: Henry passes away at age seven due to Fanconi Anemia.
• 2003: The Hope for Henry Foundation is established.
• 2010: Laurie Strongin publishes Saving A Henry: A Mother’s Journey.
• 2019: National Hope for Henry Day is officially launched.

National Hope for Henry Day Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	October 25	Saturday
2026	October 25	Sunday
2027	October 25	Monday
2028	October 25	Wednesday
2029	October 25	Thursday
2030	October 25	Friday

Observed on National Hope for Henry Day

On this special day, people are encouraged to:

1. Give hope: Spend time with sick children and help them enjoy activities they may otherwise miss out on.
2. Donate to the cause: Support the Hope for Henry Foundation or similar organizations working to improve the lives of sick children.
3. Brighten a child’s mood: Organize small celebrations or fun activities to uplift their spirits.

Fun Facts About National Hope for Henry Day

• The Pacific Wheel on the Santa Monica Pier lights up red annually on this day to raise awareness.
• The foundation has impacted over 60,000 children across multiple hospitals since its inception.
• The day is celebrated with superhero-themed events and celebrity visits in hospitals.

Quiz

1. What date is National Hope for Henry Day observed?
2. Who inspired the creation of this day?
3. What genetic disorder did Henry suffer from?
4. What year was the Hope for Henry Foundation established?
5. What book did Laurie Strongin write about her son?

(Answers: 1. October 25; 2. Henry Strongin Goldberg; 3. Fanconi Anemia; 4. 2003; 5. Saving A Henry: A Mother’s Journey)

FAQs

• What is National Hope for Henry Day about?
  It’s a day dedicated to bringing hope and joy to children battling serious illnesses.
• Who was Henry Strongin Goldberg?
  Henry was a brave child who inspired the creation of this day through his cheerful spirit despite severe illness.
• How can I participate in this day?
  You can donate, volunteer, or organize activities to brighten the lives of sick children.
• Is this a global observance?
  Currently, it is primarily observed in the U.S., but its message resonates globally.
• What does the Hope for Henry Foundation do?
  It creates programs that make hospital stays less stressful and more enjoyable for seriously ill children.

Importance of National Hope for Henry Day

1. Inspiring Resilience: It reminds us of the importance of staying hopeful even in challenging times.
2. Advocating Joyful Care: It sheds light on how positive experiences can improve medical outcomes for children.
3. Fostering Community Support: It unites people in acts of kindness and philanthropy toward vulnerable children.

Related Topics

• Children’s Health Awareness Days
• Philanthropy and Charity Events
• Pediatric Care Innovations