Kids can do big things when adults let them
What started out as a school fundraiser in support of the Stollery, grew into something much more as students at Wîhkwêntôwin School showcased their visions for a stand-alone Stollery Children’s Hospital – one built for kids, by kids.
Stollery mom and teacher, Kara Weis, wanted to give back to the Stollery Children’s Hospital after her daughter, Marigold, spent 40 days at the Stollery at just 10 weeks old.
Under Kara’s leadership, the Grade 3 and 4 students at Wîhkwêntôwin School planned a fundraiser in support of the Stollery. As the students got more involved, they got inspired to do even more. In
addition to raising more than $1,200 for the Stollery, the students were inspired to build their own hospital for kids. After meeting with experts from doctors and nurses to architects and interior designers, the students created 3D models of their patient rooms – even drafting blueprints of different units in their hospital.
Last week, these students presented their visions for the new Stollery Children’s Hospital – one built for kids, by kids. The future of kids’ health care was designed in bright colours, bold ideas – and a whole lot of heart.
This project started as a simple fundraiser but evolved to give young people a voice in shaping the spaces meant to care for them.
Their ideas were as thoughtful as they were imaginative.
From colourful patient rooms and interactive
play spaces to calming environments and exciting floors, the students focused on one thing: making hospitals feel less scary. Their designs reflect what adults sometimes forget – that kids experience health care differently.
This project is a powerful reminder that community support for the future stand-alone Stollery goes beyond funding – it’s about listening. Because sometimes, the best ideas come from kids with crayons, big imaginations and the belief that even the toughest places can feel a little more like home.
Originally aired March 19, 2026.
Also featured on CTV News Edmonton.
