HERMISTON, Ore.-Families and community members turned out for Children’s Celebration Day at Good Shepherd Health Care System (GSHCS) in Hermiston on June 17.
Hosted by Good Shepherd Pediatrics, the event was a free celebration of children, healthy families, active play, and community connection.
“It was a beautiful, successful event,” said Pediatrician Dr. Madalina Mindrut, MD, FAAP, Pediatric Medical Director at GSHCS. “We’re grateful for the community turning out and celebrating.”
Kids were able to take home a free book, thanks to Altrusa of Hermiston, get their faces painted, enjoy balloon animals, make chalk drawings, and play lawn games at the event.
“It’s something to do for the day,” said Kiana Childers, of Ione, who attended Children’s Celebration Day with her 15-month-old son. “He was really excited about the balloons, and it’s a chance for him to interact with other kids.”
Children were also able to decorate hats and T-shirts to take home, and free life jackets and bike helmets were available.
The Umatilla Public Library and Parks and Recreation Department were on site promoting summer activities, and Umatilla County Fire District #1 provided fire safety educational information for children.
“Bluey” from the beloved children’s TV show interacted with families and posed for photos, and WE Ice was available to help families stay cool.
“This is a great activity,” said Briana Cortaberria, of Echo, who brought her two younger children, ages 12 and 8, to the event, primarily for the bike helmets. “We appreciate Good Shepherd’s support of student safety.”
One of the most popular attractions at Children’s Celebration Day was the opportunity for kids to Silly String GSHCS President and CEO Art Mathisen, COO/CFO Jonathan Edwards, and Pediatrician Dr. Daniel Canal joined in the fun.
“I’m so glad about the turnout,” said Dr. Canal. “We want the community to know that we’re here for their children.”
Good Shepherd Pediatrics, located at 600 NW 11th Street, Suite E-33, cares for infants, children, and adolescents up to 26 years-of-age, providing health screenings, diagnosing and treating injuries, caring for sick children, providing immunizations, promoting healthy lifestyles, and more.
Specialty services at Good Shepherd Pediatrics include Child Psychiatry with Dr. Christopher David and Pediatric Gastroenterology with Dr. Lina Castillo.
Good Shepherd Pediatrics can be reached by phone at 541.667.3740. Appointments may also be requested online.
