On the surface Josh, a plush, cute looking golden retriever may appear to be just another toy (my idea of the perfect pet); but Josh is not just any toy – he is a therapeutic tool! His mission is to help children deal with the stress and anxiety associated with illness and hospitalization.

At the best of times the hospital environment is quite frightening, even for adults. Children experiencing the stress of being in this unfamiliar setting with parents/caregivers not always present, fear of pain, and stranger anxiety, may respond with physical and emotional behaviors that are uncharacteristic. Enter Project Josh and Friends!

The goal of Project Josh and Friends is to create a better understanding of the hospital experience for pediatric patients. Children entering the hospital are presented with a Josh and Friends kit which includes a “Josh” plush toy as well as the book entitled I’ll be OK. The book tells the story of a golden retriever named Josh who goes through an experience in a Veterinary Hospital, which ultimately helps him return to his normal healthy state. By following Josh through his illness children learn about diagnostic procedures, surgery, and recovery all the while being affirmed by Josh’s phrase, “I’ll be OK.” Josh transforms a child's fearful expectations into a more manageable, exciting adventure, having an immediate positive impact on the child's well being.

This project has recently been implemented in Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, in Southern California. Trained volunteers deliver the kits and read the book to children between the ages of three and ten. Parents are also encouraged to read the book to their child pointing out pictures of the different procedures and tests.This helps the child to become familiar with some of equipment and procedures prior to his/her own intervention(s) being performed, thereby relieving some of their anxiety.

Josh Goes Everywhere

Josh not only stays with the child in the hospital, accompanying him/her to all tests and procedures (especially when parents/caregivers cannot enter certain areas with them), but also goes home with the child, and returns with him/her for follow-up appointments, tests, or additional hospitalizations. This constantly reinforces the message of “I’ll be OK” with the child, while offering comfort.

Pay Josh and Friends Forward

Parents, family and friends can “pay" Josh and Friends "forward” by supporting fundraising projects to enable other hospitalized children to benefit from this project in the future.

Choose Health.