Andrea's Closet is named for Andrea Brunk, who was 8 years old when she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2000. During her hospital stay and visits, Andrea was able to pick a gift when she was particularly brave or had a particularly difficult day. According to her family, those gifts had little effect until she saw the closet where they were kept.

"Her face lit up," said Andrea’s mom, Traci Brunk. After spying that closet, Andrea began to feel differently about procedures and treatments. She knew she would get to pick whatever toy would make her happy when everything was done.

After 18 months of treatment, Andrea died in 2002. Traci coped by shopping and soon, Andrea’s Closet was born.

Organized and stocked through our dedicated Child Life department, Andrea’s Closet now brings smiles to the faces of hundreds of children a month by allowing each child to pick their own toy.

“It’s amazing what having that small choice in the middle of a situation where often there is no choice can have in a child’s attitude and healing,” said Sue Eaton, director of Child Life. “A toy is a small thing but it can go a long way in helping a child face a frightening situation through distraction and comfort.”

To donate to Andrea’s Closet at Banner Children's, contact the Child Life Department at (480) 512-4919.

To learn more about the Andrea's Closet organization, visit www.andreascloset.org.