Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Celebrates 15th Annual CHOP Prom

The 15th Annual CHOP Prom, sponsored by the Joshua Kahan Fund, was an experience to remember.  On Thursday, June 23^rd, 2022, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia patients partied alongside their families, clinicians, and the Child Life team right from the comfort of their own rooms and playrooms as the Special Events Team and Patient Media Program brought their 2^nd year of a “virtual” Prom! This year the theme was “Masquerade Ball” where each patient received a “swag bag” which contained a Masquerade Mask, party favors and more!! Patients who were not able to visit their playrooms were also provided with decoration kits to turn their rooms into its very own ball room!

The day began LIVE in Seacrest Studios on Galaxy 51 (CHOP’s internal television network) with a Prom-Preshow, hosted by the Hole in The Wall Gang Camp crew. Child Life staff members participated in a live version of “The Masked Singer” as patients called to down to guess their staff performer!! Performances ranged from “Dancing Queen” by Abba, to “You belong With Me" by Taylor Swift performed in American Sign Language!  Patients and families enjoyed watching each performer reveal themselves in the end. Next, we brought back our special Prom-themed BINGO! Patients called down as they matched five Prom terms in a row and won prizes. Seacrest Studios even had a special guest patient help host the show in her prom attire. 

Following Prom Bingo, it was time to have a dance party with the Live in studio DJ Crew provided by “Hot Hot Hot Entertainment”!! But, to help start off our dance party, Grammy Nominated recording artist, Charlie Puth, sent along his well wishes and an exclusive performance of his hit songs “Light Switch” and “Attention”. Patients danced the night away while friends from Hole in The Wall Gang acted as the “feet on the street” visiting playroom parties throughout the hospital and skyping them in live to the studio.  During this time, a rotating punch and treat cart pushed by hospital volunteers visited the floors offering patients and caregivers special treats!  Live in studio there was a dance party, as patients from our Rehab unit visited the studio to sing, dance and request some of their favorite dance songs. 

All in all, this year’s CHOP Prom was a big success and gave patients and families a special night to remember!