National Hope for Henry Day

Categories:: Special Interest
Tags:: Children Parents
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every October 25
Holiday emoji:: 💖

National Hope for Henry Day, observed every October 25, is dedicated to bringing joy and normalcy to children battling chronic and life-threatening illnesses. This day reminds us that health challenges should never stop a child from pursuing their passions. Join us in spreading cheer and supporting programs that empower these brave young spirits.

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Expected National Hope for Henry Day Deals

As a cause-driven observance, National Hope for Henry Day focuses on fundraising and community support rather than commercial deals. Many organizations, like the Hope for Henry Foundation, partner with hospitals and corporate sponsors to provide comfort and entertainment for pediatric patients. Expect opportunities to donate to child life programs, participate in virtual events, or purchase merchandise where proceeds benefit children’s health initiatives. Retailers may offer donation matching programs for children’s hospitals or feature products that support pediatric care. We will update this page with confirmed live opportunities as October 25 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Hope for Henry Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #HopeForHenryDay. Share stories of children finding joy despite illness, or highlight organizations making a difference.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #HopeForHenryDay. Post about local events, fundraisers, or personal stories of hope.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #HopeForHenryDay. Share inspiring quotes, facts about pediatric illness, or calls to action for donations.

National Hope for Henry Day Hero

Henry Strong

Henry Strong was a vibrant young boy who, despite battling a rare disease, inspired his parents to create the Hope for Henry Foundation. His resilience and desire to experience the joys of childhood, even while hospitalized, became the driving force behind the organization's mission to bring smiles and normalcy to other sick children.

History of National Hope for Henry Day

National Hope for Henry Day was created and first celebrated in 2019 by the Hope for Henry Foundation — an organization that focuses on giving special care to very sick children in hospitals by allowing them to experience activities and life events that would not normally be possible for them.

Henry Strongin Goldberg is a seven-year-old boy, who is considered a Washington D.C. hero for his cheerful attitude towards his most challenging life moments. He was born to Allen Goldberg and Laurie Strongin on October 25, 1995. He was diagnosed with Fanconi Anemia, a rare form of a genetic disorder, on November 11 two weeks after his birth. Upon diagnosis, Henry began to frequently be admitted to the hospital. While undergoing several therapies to keep him in manageable shape, the little boy showed tremendous resilience in the face of his ordeals. He was always cheerful, happy, and active. Henry did not allow his terminal sickness to deter him from enjoying everything life had to offer to little children. He played sports and hunted fireflies just like other children.

While searching for a cure for their child’s sickness, Henry’s parents were told that only a stem cell transplant could give him a chance of survival. And so, they gave birth to another child in 1996, hoping he would be a transplant match for Henry, which, unfortunately, wasn’t the case. The year 2002 marked the painful occasion of Henry giving in to his illness. In 2003, drawing inspiration from the lessons they learned from his cheerfulness, his parents created the Hope for Henry Foundation, an organization that has inspired the lives of over 60,000 children in over ten hospitals. In 2010, Henry’s mother decided to document her child’s experience and published “Saving A Henry: A Mother’s Journey.” To extend their foundation’s reach, National Hope for Henry Day was created.

National Hope for Henry Day timeline

1995

Birth

The Washington D.C. child hero is born.

1996

A Brother

Henry's mother gives birth to another child, Jack, hoping he would be a transplant match for Henry.

2002

Henry's Passing

Henry dies at the age of seven.

2003

Hope For Henry

Henry's parents found the Hope For Henry Foundation.

2010

Saving A Henry

Henry's mother publishes the book “Saving A Henry: A Mother's Journey.”

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Hope for Henry Day

Local businesses can show their support for National Hope for Henry Day by partnering with children’s hospitals or foundations. Consider organizing a ‘day of play’ for pediatric patients, sponsoring a child life activity, or donating a portion of sales to a relevant charity. Restaurants could offer a special ‘Hope Meal’ with proceeds benefiting a children’s health organization, while toy stores could run a donation drive for hospitalized kids. Spreading awareness on social media and encouraging customer participation can also make a significant impact.

National Hope for Henry Day FAQs

When is National Hope for Henry Day?

National Hope for Henry Day 2026 is observed on Sunday, October 25, a dedicated day to uplift the spirits of children facing serious illnesses.

What is the Hope for Henry Foundation?

The Hope for Henry Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2003 that works to improve the hospital experience for children with life-threatening illnesses. They provide innovative programs, gifts, and entertainment to bring joy and a sense of normalcy to young patients.

How can I support children with critical illnesses?

You can support children with critical illnesses by donating to organizations like the Hope for Henry Foundation or your local children’s hospital. Volunteering your time, participating in fundraisers, or simply sending cards of encouragement can also make a significant difference in a child’s life.

What is the significance of National Hope for Henry Day?

National Hope for Henry Day highlights the importance of providing emotional and social support to children undergoing medical treatment. It’s a day to ensure that even amid health struggles, children can still experience joy, play, and a sense of childhood.

How to Observe National Hope for Henry Day

Give hope
If you know any sick children, do your all to facilitate their lives and help them experience things not normally possible for them. Such experiences can help them feel refreshed and happy once again.
Donate to the foundation
Take this chance to support children like Henry with donations, no matter how small. The Hope for Henry Foundation would be a good place to start.
Brighten a sick child's mood
If you don’t have the money, be their mental support. Help them fend off their fear and feel some tranquility. Whenever possible, arrange mini celebrations and fun activities for them.

5 Facts About Fanconi Anemia That You Should Know

It is genetic
Fanconi Anemia is a genetic disorder.
Non-gender discriminative
The disorder is found in both males and females, although one type is exclusively in males.
Anomaly
Most individuals affected with the disorder are usually born with a body defect(s).
Low survival
Children with Fanconi Anemia rarely survive to adulthood.
Only one
Stem cell transplant remains the only cure for the blood defects caused by Fanconi Anemia.

Why National Hope for Henry Day is Important

It’s inspiring
National Hope for Henry Day inspires us to remain hopeful. Let’s take this chance to be cheerful in the face of our own challenges.
Children’s happiness
To grant happiness to the hearts of these little ones is the absolute best. Sick children long for someone who offers them all the excitement they were denied by their sicknesses.
Altruistic
We all love acts of philanthropy, which is exactly what the Hope for Henry Foundation gives to thousands of our ill children by creating this Day. See what you can do on this day to bring a smile to someone’s face/