Emma Krall isn’t even two years old, and already, she’s proven herself a warrior.
Born prematurely, the 21-month-old from Seattle, Washington, has fought the entirety of her life. She’s been dealing with skeletal dysplasia and scoliosis from birth and spent her first eight months in the hospital.
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Recently, she went back for another six-week stay to undergo major spinal surgery at Seattle Children’s Hospital, and has to wear a medical device around her head to keep her spine straight.
“She was becoming super close to becoming paralyzed,” her mom, Rachael, said.
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But despite everything Emma’s gone (and will go) through, at the end of the day, she’s a normal kid who loves much of the same things other little girls her age do – especially princesses. So before she and her mom were finally discharged, the doctors and nurses surprised them with the best goodbye party Emma could ask for.
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Doctors and nurses alike donned tiaras to match the one Emma wore on her device. Such a special occasion called for equally special accessories. “We do not put on a tiara just for anyone,” Emma’s orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Klane White explained. “Emma is special that way.”
But the best part for the toddler had to be when Rapunzel herself (volunteer Chael Stenchever) showed up!
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Emma is non-verbal, but the delight on her face spoke for her perfectly. “She was pretty excited,” Rachael confirmed. “I could see it in her face.”
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The little girl was in heaven gazing at one of her favorite Disney princesses, listening to stories of Rapunzel’s adventures, and playing games with the long-haired maiden. If she could talk, she’d tell everyone this was the best surprise ever, though hospital staff feel they’re the lucky ones to be able to brighten her day.
“There’s just something about her that draws you in and tugs at your heart,” nurse practitioner Brenda Eng said. “And you just want to be kind to her.”
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After that unforgettable party, Emma is happy to finally be back at home with her parents – though we’re sure she’ll miss her sweet friends at the hospital.
Working in the medical profession goes so much further than providing care to patients. It’s about helping people through the toughest times of their lives, and giving them a reason to smile. Emma’s medical team went above and beyond to do both.
Check out more footage from Emma’s princess party below, and share to brighten others’ days as well.
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