Paramedics Making Custom Wagons For Children's Hospital Patients
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - A hospital stay can be tough on a child.
Between treatments and being away from home, kids often have to deal with a lot in addition to their illness.
But, some first responders here in Pittsburgh are trying to make the whole process a little easier for young patients.
Random items like computer printers and cushions will ultimately be transformed into something incredible.
Proceeds from the donated goods will be used to create to customized wagons.
"We give those to Children's Hospital and they use them to pull the kids in between chemotherapy sessions, whatever other interventions that they're having there," Pittsburgh Paramedic Tony Konop said.
The new wheels, which will look like mini emergency vehicles complete with flashing lights, will be used mostly in the hematology/oncology clinic at the hospital.
Pittsburgh Paramedics came up with the idea. They say, they often see and treat children.
"After we don't see them anymore, we like to know that we've done a little something to make whatever they are going through just a little less painful and a little more enjoyable for them and this is a good way to do it," Konop said.
The paramedics partnered with the Fraternal Association of Professional Paramedics and Goodwill to make the project happen.
The goal is to make at least five decked out wagons, which will allow patients to ride in style through the hospital hallways.
"It makes it a little less stressful for the kids, maybe it will be a little something to cheer them up," Konop said.
Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter