What Inspired One Mom to Help a Hospital Grow

Why would one mother dedicate her time to helping a hospital grow? For Andi Sklar, the answer came from her role as a parent and a passionate advocate. She saw a critical need for children to have access to excellent medical care. Rather than wait for someone else to take action, she stepped up. Her journey began with a vision and turned into a series of impactful steps. These steps connected the hospital deeply with the local community.

It Started with a Mother’s Vision

When the new Connecticut Children’s Medical Center opened, it needed more than just staff and equipment. It needed people to know what it offered. Andi Sklar, a mother herself, knew this hospital could save lives if only people understood its value. Her passion stemmed from knowing that fast, specialized care matters most in a child’s life. She saw the hospital as a beacon for parents who needed reliable pediatric care. This personal connection fueled her drive to spread the word.

Connecting Doctors with the Public

Andi realized that people trusted hearing from the experts themselves. So, she partnered with physicians and hospital staff. Together, they hosted tours to showcase everything the hospital could do for children. These events allowed parents and supporters to ask questions and understand complex pediatric services. This direct contact helped build trust and familiarity with the hospital. Andi helped bridge the gap between the community and medical professionals.

Crafting Events with Heart

To make the message stick, Andi knew that events needed to feel personal and meaningful. She organized gatherings that focused on what matters to families—like care for cancer, special therapies, or advanced surgeries. Each event had a personal touch and reflected the stories of children and caregivers. Families left feeling more connected, informed, and inspired to support the cause. These were not just fundraisers—they were platforms for hope and awareness.

Building Buzz Through Networking

Andi’s efforts didn’t stop with events—she began spreading the word through her own network. She talked to other parents, community leaders, and friends about what the hospital was doing. Her message was always clear: this is about our children’s future. As more people heard the story, the excitement grew. Her energy helped transform the hospital from a new building into a trusted part of the community. That’s the impact one determined voice can have.

Highlighting the Human Side of Care

Andi also helped spotlight the support systems inside the hospital. She drew attention to child life specialists, emotional wellness staff, and family support programs. These services are often overlooked, but they help children and families feel safe and cared for. Through storytelling at events, she made sure people saw the full picture. The hospital wasn’t just about medicine—it was about healing the whole child. That emotional connection brought in even more community support.

Events That Make a Difference

From formal events to playful family days like Superhero Sunday, the hospital’s event calendar grew. Andi’s early efforts inspired a culture where people wanted to show up and give back. Events became educational and heartfelt, with speakers, stories, and interactive experiences. Community members began to see their role as essential to the hospital’s mission. Today, those same events continue to drive awareness and generosity. Her early work helped lay that foundation.

Conclusion

Andi’s journey shows how one person can lead lasting change through connection and compassion. By aligning her personal experience with a community need, she built bridges that still stand today. Her story reminds us that real impact often begins with someone simply deciding to act. The hospital grew stronger because people believed in its mission—thanks in part to her efforts. That’s the power of community in action.