AUSTIN, Texas – Children at Dell Children’s Medical Center were treated to a spectacular display of heroism during the 11th annual Superhero Day, held on April 30. The event, organized in collaboration with the Austin Police Department, allowed young patients to see their beloved superheroes come to life.
As part of the festivities, various superheroes, including police officers and healthcare workers, rappelled down the building, greeting patients, families, and staff with waves as they descended floor by floor. Many children dressed as their favorite comic book characters, fully embracing the day’s theme.
Fifteen-year-old Dayshawn, a patient at the hospital, shared his enthusiasm for the event, exclaiming, “It was super cool. It was fun. It was the most fun event I went to.” Robyn Moyer, the director of child life and expressive therapies at Dell Children’s, emphasized the importance of the day, stating, “We all come together and bring some joy to our patients and families, and you can see it in their eyes when they’re able to be part of this day. It’s a day to just be kids again, meet their heroes, and have some fun together.”
Retired APD Officer Matt Harmatuk, who donned the cape of Superman, reflected on the impact of the event. “It never gets old, the kids light up,” he stated. “It might be the first time that they smile because the parents sometimes get emotional when we visit them. We inspire them to stay positive and fight through the challenges that they’re dealing with, and that’s what we’re here for.”
Dayshawn added, “This was a great show, and you guys should know, if you went to Dell Children’s, you should have gone and seen it.” The day was not only a celebration of superhero figures but also highlighted the hospital’s commitment to uplifting the spirits of its young patients.
Additionally, Dell Children’s introduced a newly wrapped ambulance, affectionately named the “Lil Buckaroo Express,” further enhancing the festive atmosphere of the day.
