Joshua’s Story

Joshua is a 12-year-old boy whose infectious smile hides a world of challenges. Diagnosed at an early age with Autism, Epilepsy, and rare chronic medical conditions, Joshua faces daily struggles, yet his unwavering spirit and desire to help others shine through. Over the years Joshua has spent days to weeks hospitalized for his numerous health conditions. Within the comforting walls of Children’s Hospital Orange County (CHOC), Joshua has found support from the dedicated Child Life Specialists.

Child Life Specialists support the child before and during procedures and appointments, and give the child a book, toy or stuffed animal to help them through the medical treatment. At the tender age of 9, during a routine appointment at the Thompson Autism Center, Joshua’s child life specialist was faced with an empty toy cupboard. That moment sparked his mission to give back! Joshua made it his goal to ensure no child at CHOC went without toys and Joshua’s Joyful Giving was created!