In a surprising twist, a construction site has become a beacon of joy for kids at a nearby hospital, thanks to the charming antics of one foreman. Every day, he hides a life-sized cut-out of Waldo, the beloved character from the classic book series, to give young patients at the Memorial Children’s Hospital something fun to do.
Meet Mark Thompson
Mark Thompson is currently overseeing a $50 million expansion project at the Memorial Children’s Hospital in South Bend, Indiana. In an interview with the Huffington Post, he shared how a snowman his crew built last winter had delighted the kids in the hospital. Inspired by that joy, Mark decided to create even more happiness by introducing Waldo to the mix.
“One of my colleagues jokingly suggested, ‘Wouldn’t it be funny if Waldo was up here?’” Mark recounted. “I thought, ‘Yeah, that’s a brilliant idea!’” He quickly got to work, crafting a life-sized Waldo from plywood and began hiding it around the construction site last April. Whenever the kids spot Waldo, the hospital informs him, and he relocates Waldo for the next round of search and find.
Waldo’s Popularity
Waldo’s popularity has skyrocketed! He even has his own Facebook page, showcasing his adventures around the site—whether he’s perched at the top of the building, taking a bathroom break, soaking up some sun, pulling a late shift, or ready to get to work at the entrance.
Mark understands the challenges faced by families in the hospital; his own daughter spent time there when she was just three. He wanted to bring a little relief and laughter to their day. “He’s eight feet tall and a bit of a hassle to move, but it’s totally worth it for the kids,” he shared with a chuckle.
A Reminder of Kindness
This heartwarming gesture reminds us that kindness can shine through even in the darkest times. In a world that often feels overwhelming, little acts of joy, like finding Waldo, can make a big difference. If you’re interested in similar heartwarming stories, check out this post on our blog about the importance of kindness.
In summary, Mark Thompson’s whimsical Waldo game has not only entertained children in the hospital but also brought smiles to countless faces. It’s a beautiful reminder that joy can be found in unexpected places, and that a little thoughtfulness goes a long way.