Love In Action Day
Love’s Reflection recently hosted a special Love in Action Day for children in palliative care and their families — a day filled with smiles, laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.
One parent shared:
“Thank you, Love’s Reflection, for the incredible Love in Action Day. We had such an amazing time, and we truly can’t thank you enough for bringing so many smiles to the kids today. It was an unforgettable day for London, and she is beyond excited to share all about it with her friends at school tomorrow. Your kindness meant the world.”
Another message came from a family who recently came to our country from Ukraine:
“Thank you very much for today. We are very pleased that you invited us. Thank you and may God bless you and your family for everything you do.”
These messages are a beautiful reminder of the impact kindness and community can make. Thank you to everyone who volunteered, donated, and supported this incredible day. Because of you, these children and families experienced joy, connection, and love when they needed it most. 💙
Written by Jesse Smith of WMFD:
GALION, OH – Children in palliative care and their families gathered at Craig Smith RV Center on Sunday for a day of entertainment designed to provide a sense of normalcy and community support.
The event served as the kickoff for Love’s Reflection, a program founded by Brent Smith, the dealer-principal at Craig Smith RV Center. The initiative aims to support families across Richland, Ashland, Wayne and Knox counties who are navigating the challenges of pediatric palliative care.
“We were shocked to find that there were 165 children in this situation,” Smith said. “We decided for a ribbon cutting kickoff ceremony that we wanted to invite all of them and offer a wide variety of things to entertain them.”
The day featured several interactive stations, including “touch-a-truck” displays with Galion Fire and EMS vehicles, as well as a SWAT vehicle provided by the Mount Vernon Police Department. Children also interacted with costumed characters, went on convertible rides and participated in art projects.
Smith, who has served as a hospice volunteer for three years, said his experience helping families during their most difficult moments inspired the event.
“I just want the parents and the kids to feel like they can have a normal day where they don’t have to think about the illnesses that their children are dealing with,” Smith said. “I want them to feel seen and supported and cared about.”
The program is currently partnering with Akron Children’s Hospital to grant wishes for children in palliative care. Additionally, Love’s Reflection is working with Gentiva Hospice to develop a “bucket list” program for seniors in hospice care.
Smith spent approximately six months planning the event, coordinating with local law enforcement, business partners and volunteers. The community response was significant, with many volunteers and performers – including an Elvis impersonator – reaching out to offer their services.
Smith plans to host individual events as the processes with Akron Children’s and Gentiva Hospice are finalized. The group is also in discussions with Akron Children’s Hospital to expand support to children in the hospital’s burn unit.
