At just 16 months old, Parker Liebl has already faced significant health challenges. During birth, he developed a pneumothorax (collapsed lung) and pneumomediastinum, requiring immediate care in the NICU. After returning home, Parker continued to struggle with breathing, leading to the discovery that he was born with laryngomalacia, a congenital airway abnormality. This condition not only made breathing more difficult but also caused severe gastroesophageal reflux and feeding difficulties. Even routine illnesses, like the common cold, pose serious risks to his health.

A recent hospitalization for pneumonia at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, further highlighted the obstacles Parker and his family face. However, during this difficult time, they found an unexpected source of relief — a Starlight Radio Flyer Hero Wagon. Designed specifically for hospital environments, this medical-grade wagon features an integrated IV pole bracket and seat belt, providing a safe and comfortable way for young patients to explore beyond their hospital rooms. 

“The medically accessible wagon at Wesley Medical Center provided a sense of comfort and normalcy to my son while he was hospitalized,” said Parker’s mother, Gina Liebl. “It also gave him the ability to be mobile and active while still being connected to necessary cardiac monitors and IV medications.” 

Inspired by the positive impact of the Hero Wagon, Parker’s family sought to pay it forward. They partnered with Gina’s employer, Heartland Dermatology, to donate a Starlight Hero Wagon to Clara Barton Medical Center in Hoisington — the hospital where Parker first received care. This donation ensures that other children facing hospital stays can also benefit from the comfort, mobility, and playfulness the wagon provides.

“At Heartland Dermatology, we believe in giving back to the communities we serve and supporting families during their most challenging moments,” said Tara Gillespie, CEO of Heartland Dermatology. “We are honored to partner with Starlight Children’s Foundation and Parker’s family to bring a Starlight Hero Wagon to Clara Barton Medical Center. It’s our hope that this small gesture provides comfort, mobility, and a sense of normalcy to young patients and their families, just as it did for Parker.”

Hospital pediatric care teams appreciate the Hero Wagon for its practicality and ease of use. With a one-hand folding design, it’s easy to store in tight hospital spaces, and its medical-grade fabric allows for quick cleaning between uses. Beyond transportation, hospital staff can also use the wagon to deliver toys, supplies, and activities to young patients, reinforcing the healing power of play.

“This gift reflects our commitment to providing compassionate, family-centered care and enhancing the patient experience—even for our youngest visitors. The addition of the Starlight Hero Wagon to our facility will help children move around despite medical challenges,” said Clara Barton Foundation Director, Michelle Moshier. “Thanks to Parker’s family and Heartland Dermatology, this thoughtful gift will bring moments of joy and distraction, helping ease the hospital experience for both kids and their families. Their generosity is a reminder of how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in a child’s healing journey.”

Each year, an estimated 20,000 children under the age of five are hospitalized due to the flu. Young children, like Parker, with respiratory conditions are at an even higher risk for complications and extended hospital stays. During these challenging times, access to programs like the Starlight Hero Wagon can make a meaningful difference for both children and their families.

“When kids are happier, it can lead to better health outcomes,” said Peyton Gelley, Starlight Families Manager and Certified Child Life Specialist at Starlight Children’s Foundation. “Starlight supports hospitalized kids—and their families—through programs that unlock the healing power of play. While play might look different in a hospital setting, it provides emotional relief, social connections, and distraction from pain and discomfort.”

Starlight Children’s Foundation has been bringing joy to hospitalized kids since 1982. In 2024 alone, Starlight impacted more than 3 million children and their families across the U.S. by providing vital programs—including Starlight Gaming, Starlight Toy Deliveries, and Starlight Hospital Gowns—that help make hospital stays a little brighter.

To learn more about Starlight Children’s Foundation and how you can support hospitalized children, visit starlight.org.