Woody's Toys Brings Happiness to Sick Children

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Seventeen years ago, Paul 'Woody' Woodward's young son spent two grueling years battling childhood cancer. That experience inspired Woody to start hosting toy drives year-round and personally delivering thousands of gifts to children's hospitals, first in Iowa City and now to Phoenix Children's Hospital. Through his nonprofit, Woody's Toys, he has brought comfort and happiness to tens of thousands of kids facing cancer, reminding all of us how one person's compassion can make a difference.

Why it matters

Woody's story highlights the power of compassion and community support for children facing serious illnesses. His nonprofit provides an important service by delivering toys and gifts that can lift the spirits of young patients during difficult treatments.

The details

Woody started Woody's Toys after his son's cancer battle, hosting toy drives and personally delivering over 55,000 toys to children's hospitals. He first began in Iowa City, where his son was treated, and has since expanded to Phoenix Children's Hospital.

• Seventeen years ago, Woody's son spent two years battling childhood cancer.
• Woody started his nonprofit Woody's Toys shortly after his son's treatment.

What’s next

Woody's Toys plans to continue expanding its reach to more children's hospitals across the country.