Captain’s Log: Avast, ye scurvy dogs, did ye be figuring that we’d miss the chance to clear the decks for pleasant action? Never think it, because it be time again for the ruckus of International Talk Like a Pirate Day.  The crew and yer ol’ Captain have realize that a pirate’s life is the only life for a man of any spirit.  Below, ye be seeing the recount of one the crewmen.  So, until next year, good luck to you and a fair wind.

by Tracey Deaux
Child Life Specialist

Arrrgh, matey!  Shiver me timbers, for today is the day for ye to talk like a pirate.

And what a day it was.  Our Child Life staff celebrates Talk Like a Pirate day once a year.  It’s just a shame this event can’t be held more.  On this momentous occasion, patients and families as well as the entire hospital staff have the excuse to let loose, play some great games, and enjoy all the privileges that come with being a pirate. 

This year was no different.  We started things off with a pirate scavenger hunt all throughout the hospital.  Patients and their families were given clues and made their way through specific stops.  It takes a master pirate to figure out these clues.  One clue went something like this: “We’ll make ye walk the plank, if ye have all the smarts. Go south on the 5th floor, where there’s the most unique art.”  The last clue led the families to the final destination—the Talk Like a Pirate party where food, games, and prizes were provided.

At the party, there was pirate treasure box cake, pirate punch, and “create your own pirate trail mix.” There were plenty of games to work off that sweet pirate tooth.  “Walk the Plank Pirate Trivia,” Parrot bowling, “Create your own eye patch,” a multitude of coloring activities and prizes were given out along the way.  The patients seemed to really enjoy taking their minds off the hospital for a little bit and just being “kids.”  Seeing these kids smile from ear to ear is what makes this day so special.

What a great festivity this was.  I already can’t wait for next year’s Talk Like a Pirate day.  As a pirate would say, “Farewell, matey, and happy sailing.”