Meet Ruby! She returned from Seattle after her liver transplant and received one of our kits at a follow up at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital. That smile says so much doesn’t it?!

She’s one of my daily reminder of why I do what I do with Tough As Nails.

A lot of my time is spent behind the computer doing the necessary details to keep the business running. Another bit of time is with volunteers. Seldom do I get to see the end result of our kits. The smiles and joy they bring.

Even though I know without a shadow of doubt they DO bring joy and smiles, it truly is something I seldom witness. This is a privilege saved for the parents, caregivers, and hospital staff and I’m more than happy to share it with them.

It’s scientifically proven that 15 minutes of creative activity reduces stress and anxiety in the body. This is one of the many benefits art therapy can provide, including a reduction in depression, opportunities to process difficult emotions and diagnosis, decrease in pain, a more willing attitude to face challenging procedures, and so much more.

Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital is one of the 11 organizations and hospitals we proudly serve in our area monthly. We also partner with: Ronald McDonald House of Charities (Spokane), Shriners Hospital, Holy Family Hospital, Wishing Star Foundation, Anna Schindler Foundation, Camp Journey, Ronald McDonald House of Charities (Coeur d’Alene), Gritman Medical, Whitman Medical, and ACCOIN (American Childhood Cancer Organization of the Inland NW).

Want to get involved in helping us make an impact and give a little bit of love to kids just like Ruby? Please reach out to us and let us know how you’d like to help serve! Email toughasnails@tankits.org with your interest or check out our website to see what opportunities are available to you.