For a few hours, families in our Casey Cares programs with critically ill kids got to enjoy the simple pleasures of childhood. Smith Memorial Playground is closed on Mondays but the staff graciously opened its doors to our families so they could have a private party and exclusive access to the playground. 

Nearly 60 program participants and volunteers enjoyed playing at the expansive playground, which features a playhouse, snacks and a pizza lunch and time to connect with other families facing similar medical challenges. 

This year, we also teamed up with Major League Soccer's Philadelphia Union and our kids enjoyed playing in soccer-themed inflatables and kicking soccer balls into a net with staff members from the Union. 

Instead of thinking about their next doctor's appointment or hospital stay, our kids got to enjoy swings, slides, and soccer! Thanks so much to our partners at Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse and the Philadelphia Union for making such sweet memories for our families. 

Check out this great story about our event that aired on NBC 10 in Philly! Thanks to reporter Miguel Martinez-Valle and photographer J.R. Smith for joining us!