CHRISTUS Southeast Texas – St. Elizabeth’s new child life specialist makes a community impact

CHRISTUS Southeast Texas - St. Elizabeth celebrates Child Life Month by recognizing its new child life specialist, Morgan Cornelius, who is making an impact and helping some of the youngest patients in the hospital.

Child life specialists play a crucial role in helping children cope with anxiety and fear they may feel throughout their medical treatment processes. By utilizing play, this role creates a safe and comforting environment for pediatric patients, allowing them to express their emotions and concerns.

“This approach not only helps to ease a child’s fear but also empowers them to take part in their own health care journey,” Cornelius said. “My main goal is to provide invaluable support to children and their families as they navigate scary medical procedures.”

Derrick Marshall is a 5-year-old patient who has experienced firsthand the important role a child life specialist has in the overall care patients receive at the hospital.

“Derrick had a severe bladder infection resulting in seven rounds of antibiotic fluids,” said Jillian Marshall, Derrick’s mother. “He quickly grew a bond with Morgan, who helped him, and even me, navigate this scary situation.”

She said he has high-functioning autism and was originally uncomfortable with the unknown.

“The entire floor is aquarium-themed, which seemed to ease his fears initially,” she said.

The pediatric floor also features a renovated playroom funded by the Children's Miracle Network, which features a variety of games and toys for patients.

“This playroom allows our patients to engage in play before and after surgery, mentally preparing them for the procedures they will undergo,” Cornelius said.

In addition to her work with pediatric patients, Cornelius also works with families with babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

“Having a newborn in the NICU can be an extremely vulnerable and sensitive time,” Cornelius said. “I could not be more excited to provide emotional and physical support to these families and our tiniest patients of the southeast Texas community.”

Philanthropic support is crucial for sustaining and expanding the child life program at CHRISTUS Southeast Texas. Unlike revenue-generating medical and surgical services, the child life department relies on donations to fund its essential services.

Philanthropic contributions help cover the costs of various therapeutic activities and programs, gaming and technology in patient rooms, including the pediatric playroom. By supporting the child life program, donors ensure that these valuable services continue to be available, making a significant difference in the lives of young patients and their families.

The community’s generosity helps create a nurturing environment where children can thrive, even in the face of medical challenges.