Thanks to the generosity of Variety - the Children’s Charity of Iowa, pediatric procedure rooms at Blank Children’s Hospital have been transformed into spaces designed not only for treatment — but for comfort, dignity, and healing.
A recent Variety Grant supported critical renovations, including the addition of new nitrous oxide machines, Child Life sensory tools, cautery equipment, and updated procedure carts. These enhancements are helping turn what can be intimidating, stressful rooms into environments that ease anxiety, reduce trauma, and better support young patients and their families.
“Thanks to the incredible generosity of Variety - the Children’s Charity, our pediatric procedure rooms have been transformed into spaces that truly honor the emotional and psychological needs of the children we serve. These renovated rooms allow us to provide procedures in an environment designed for comfort, choice and calm – restoring the hospital room as a place of healing. Variety’s support has elevated not just our spaces, but the experience of every child who walks through our doors.
Dr. Amy Groen, Medical Director of Pediatric and Women’s Services at Blank Children’s Hospital
And the impact is already being felt.
Owen’s Story
Born at just 24 weeks, Owen spent 165 days in the NICU. Now 4½ years old, he continues to face medical challenges and requires Botox injections to help relax his muscles and improve strength through physical therapy. For a child his age, receiving multiple injections can be overwhelming — and remaining calm and still is essential for the treatment to be effective.
Because of the nitrous oxide machines funded by Variety, Owen was able to receive mild sedation with minimal side effects. He stayed relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure, making the experience smoother for him, his family, and his care team. What could have been traumatic became simple, quick, and manageable.
Redford’s Story
Ten-year-old Redford, who has cerebral palsy, also receives regular Botox injections. In the past, his procedures required either general anesthesia — which meant his parents could not be with him — or no sedation at all, causing significant anxiety and stress.
With access to nitrous oxide sedation funded by Variety, everything changed. Redford’s parents were able to stay by his side. He was calmer and more relaxed, allowing his physician to administer injections precisely and efficiently.
It means so much as a parent to have this service available. We got to stay in the room with him and it was simple, fast and all in one place. I can’t tell you how wonderful it was!
Redford's Mom
About Variety’s Grant Program
Each year, Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa invests in projects that directly improve the lives of children who are at risk, underprivileged, critically ill, or living with special needs. Through a careful and thorough review process, funded organizations are selected to ensure every dollar delivers meaningful impact.
Variety prioritizes tangible resources - equipment, facility improvements, and hands-on tools that immediately benefit children. Administrative expenses are not funded, ensuring donor support goes directly where it is needed most.
The transformation at Blank Children’s Hospital is a powerful example of that commitment in action. Because of Variety’s donors, Iowa children are receiving care in environments designed for comfort, safety, and healing —-turning moments of fear into experiences of compassion and hope.
