Flashback Friday: A Celebration for Hailey

Sweet Hailey was diagnosed with Leukodystrophy, a terminal brain disease several years ago. While each year since her diagnosis has been difficult, this year in particular has been very taxing (both mentally and financially). The biggest stressor came when Hailey needed to have a pacemaker placed due to disease progression. Because 2015 was so challenging for Hailey and her family, her parents decided to make her 7th birthday the best it could be!

Hailey adores a new toy craze called Shopkins. Shopkins are miniature versions of items you would find in your local grocery store. There are many Shopkins to collect and they come in all shapes and styles, including bread, ice cream, and even lipstick. It was only natural that when Hailey’s parents asked her about a theme for her party, she did not hesitate with a request – Shopkins!

Hailey’s mom put in an incredible amount of time and effort to make sure the party was spectacular. She had to get particularly crafty with many of the decorations because Shopkins items cannot be found at any party store!

Shopkins clothing items don’t exist, so Hailey’s mom bought a plain shirt and ironed on a Shopkins design. It was beautiful and, much to Hailey’s delight, it was pink! On Amazon.com, they sell donut shaped balloons, which Hailey’s mom loved. They fit perfectly with the theme of the party.

More easy and fun decorations were some M&M’s in tube containers with Shopkins stickers. Hailey loved the fun, bright colors! There was also a craft activity for the kids, which required lots of hand /eye coordination. This was a perfect activity because anything that helps Hailey’s brain communicate with her body is a plus!

When Renee Brodeen, Hailey’s Sugar Angel, showed up with her birthday cake, Hailey was ecstatic! Hailey looked at all the decorations that were placed on the cake and explained to everyone the particular Shopkins characters. Renee put a great deal of thought and heart into Hailey’s cake, which the family was very grateful for.

Instead of birthday presents for Hailey, Hailey’s family asked that everyone in attendance at the party bring toiletries and toys to donate to the local Ronald McDonald House. Hailey’s family wanted to “give back” as they had spent time at the Ronald McDonald House in Salt Lake when Hailey had her pacemaker surgery. They knew the House could really use the help and they were happy to be able to collect so many items to donate. Overall, it was a perfect party to celebrate a little girl who has been through so much.

Hailey was most recently chosen to compete at the Nielsen Massey Buttercream Ball in Las Vegas! She was one of 3 Super Hero Kids partnered with three masterful artists to display their super sweet talent in the Domino Sugar “Showpiece Showdown”! Hailey was teamed up with Chef Mitchies Munchies of Mitchies Munchies and they created a fantastic “Beasts and Where to Find Them” cake. They even collected the most donations and won the Showpiece Showdown! Hailey’s mother writes, “It was amazing to see all the support for these amazing children that benefit from a cake made with love in their Birthday! Thank you Icing Smiles for including Hailey. It was a wonderful night!”

To keep up with Hailey’s and all her wonderful adventures visit her website: https://www.facebook.com/HugsForHailey.