February 21 is Family Day, and that got us thinking, what is Family Day really all about? One thing is for sure. A Monday off during the dull winter months can do wonders to lift your spirits, so why not spend it with the ones you love.

We are all familiar with all the old favourites; Christmas we trim the tree, Hanukah we light the menorah, Thanksgiving we stuff ourselves silly, but what do we do on Family Day? Here at SickKids Foundation, we think it’s about creating new traditions and spending quality time with those that give us love and support. Whether you spend the day at the ice rink, playing board games with friends, curled up watching movies with the family, or in a patient room here at SickKids, it is a day to reflect and cherish the important people in our lives.

At SickKids, we are no strangers to celebrating families. Our patient families are some of the strongest, most resilient that you will find. Our staff, volunteers and donors are also a family, working together to make sure that kids spend less time in the hospital and more time with their loved ones.

Family-centred care has been a very important tradition at SickKids over the years. We understand that treating a patient goes beyond their medical needs and extends to their families needs as well. Through a holistic approach, we work together with families to ensure that they have the information, support, compassion and understanding that they need. It is our goal to see families through this difficult time, so our young patients can go on to lead full, rich and healthy lives. Wherever you may be this Family Day, take time to celebrate the ones you love. Keep in mind the SickKids family who continues to work towards our goal of ensuring families are reunited and every child gets to grow up.

Together, as a family, we will.