Medical Minute: Wildlights Notes of Hope

Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season in central Ohio, with millions of sparkling LED lights and fun activities for the whole family. It’s also an opportunity to give back and spread kindness through the Notes of Hope program.

In partnership with OhioHealth, Notes of Hope invites guests to create heartfelt cards filled with warm wishes, drawings and encouraging messages for cancer patients receiving treatment at OhioHealth facilities. The station, located in the cozy Asia Quest building just after the Tree Trail and across from the bats and tortoises, is a bright spot for holiday visitors to make a difference in the lives of others.

Now in its third year, the program continues to grow. Last year, visitors created over 2,200 notes for patients, along with more than 50 for zoo staff – and even some of the animals!

“It’s really a wonderful way for us to give back,” said Erica Clouse, Coordinator, Partnership Activations at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. “Guests are already coming here, so being able to share that holiday spirit with the patients while they’re going about their normal day is really special.”

For patients undergoing cancer treatment, these notes can be a powerful source of comfort.

“A cancer diagnosis is life-changing and often scary,” said Kara Davis, BSN, RN, oncology nurse navigator at OhioHealth Berger Hospital. “These cards remind our patients that they’re not alone and that their community supports them. Just knowing that someone took some time out of their day to wish them well really brightens their experience when they come in for treatment.”

The Notes of Hope station is open during all normal operating hours of Wildlights, including daytime zoo hours.

To learn more about OhioHealth Cancer Care, click here.

To learn more about Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, click here.