Spirit Day at Blythedale Children’s Hospital is all about joy, resilience and celebrating kids who are overcoming extraordinary challenges. And this year, one patient helped bring that spirit to life in a big way.

Faith — energetic, beloved, and known on her unit as “a little mayor” — was chosen to light the hospital’s famous elephant display during Thursday’s celebration.

“I love this,” she said with a smile, soaking in the moment that marked her first lighting ceremony.

The annual event fills the Valhalla campus with music, dancing, food, and a powerful sense of community. The elephants, glowing bright at nightfall, symbolize the strength and determination shown by Blythedale patients every day.

“She’s been through some significant challenges in life, but her resilience is incredible,” said Jeannine Florio, of Blythedale Children’s Hospital.

CEO Dr. Nathaniel Beers says Spirit Day also gives these often-marginalized kids a chance to be seen, celebrated, and uplifted by the larger community.

And last night, all that spirit came together in one child — Faith — who lit up the campus and warmed every heart around her.