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WILKES-BARRE TWP. — Pediatric patients from John Heinz Rehabilitation Hospital were in for a surprise Thursday morning as Anna and Elsa from the Disney on Ice tour stopped by to meet some of their youngest fans.
The event was brought to the hospital in conjunction with the ongoing show at Mohegan Sun Arena.
The arena and Disney worked with the hospital to not only bring Anna and Elsa to meet the kids, but most of the tour’s performers.
About 100 children had the chance to participate, all of whom are being treated at the facility for disabilities or injuries.
“It means so much,” said James Brogna, vice president of corporate advancement and communication for Allied Services. “We’re so excited for these kids.”
Some of the children dressed up as their favorite Disney characters, clad in Elsa dresses, Rapunzel outfits and even Alice in Wonderland dresses. All the children had a chance to meet Anna and Elsa and have their photos taken with the sister duo.
Jen Howie, one of the skaters for the show, read a story to the children before Anna and Elsa arrived. Howie said these events are her favorite part of being a performer.
“I think we have the best job in the whole world,” she said. “We get to come and bring this joy to these kids.”
“We just have so much fun,” she added. “It touches your heart in a way nothing else does.”
Christina Moore was there with her 3-year-old daughter, Mariana. Christina called the event an “awesome opportunity” for the children.
“Disney makes you feel like a kid all over again, and my daughter is experiencing it for the first time,” she said. “She loves princesses, and she’s our little princess.”
Disney on Ice will be presenting its “Dream Big” show through Monday at the arena.