Ann Arbor Times

To celebrate #ChildLifeMonth, we're sharing stories of patients and families who've experienced our outstanding team members. Read how they've impacted the deBest family below:

"For me, as Grace’s Mom, Child and Family Life has been the element that has reduced my stress. I’ve watched Grace go from a teenager with cancer, struggling with depression due to treatment and hospital stays, to a vibrant, engaged young woman.

The change can be attributed to the Child and Family Life team members. They helped Grace when she struggled to get so many medications down; when she was depressed from a very long hospital stay; every time she has her monthly check ups, they are there to say “hi” and catch up with Grace.

They became her friends during a time she couldn’t be around her friends at home. They were what pulled us through. Every time one of the Child Life members walked into Grace’s hospital room, her face lit up and her entire being was excited and happy," Kerri deBest said.

Original source can be found here.