You might not typically associate a construction site with excitement, but one foreman’s thoughtful act at a site near a children’s hospital is changing that perception. Each day, he hides a life-sized Where’s Waldo cut-out so that the children at Memorial Children’s Hospital can join in on the fun of searching for him.
Meet Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson is currently overseeing a $50 million expansion project at Memorial Children’s Hospital in South Bend, Indiana. Mike shared with the Huffington Post that last winter, he and his team constructed a snowman on-site, which brought joy to the kids in the hospital. Inspired by their smiles, Mike decided to elevate the fun by placing an inflatable snowman and SpongeBob SquarePants on the site. Then, a clever coworker suggested a fun idea.
“He jokingly mentioned, ‘How about putting Waldo up here?’” Mike recounted. “I thought, ‘That’s a neat idea!’ After letting it simmer for a bit, I decided to go for it!”
The Waldo Game
Using a sheet of plywood, Mike crafted a life-sized Waldo cut-out and began hiding it around the construction site last April. When the kids spot Waldo, the hospital staff informs him, and he relocates the cut-out for the next round. The popularity of Waldo has soared; he even has his own Facebook page where fans share pictures of his amusing hiding spots.
From lounging on top of the building to taking a bathroom break, soaking up some sun, or even preparing to work at the entrance, Waldo has become a delightful presence for the kids.
A Personal Connection
Mike has a personal connection to this gesture; his own daughter spent time in a children’s hospital when she was just three years old. He understands how tough it can be for both kids and parents and hopes to provide a little distraction and joy. “He’s eight feet tall and quite a hassle to move around sometimes,” Mike admitted. “But it’s all worth it for the kids.”
Dedication to Kindness
Mike and his team don’t have to keep this Waldo game going, but their dedication comes from a place of compassion. They know how much a little magic can brighten the day in what can otherwise be a daunting atmosphere. In a world that often feels heavy, this story serves as a beautiful reminder that kindness and joy can flourish in the most unexpected places—you just have to look for it.
More Heartwarming Stories
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In summary, Mike Thompson’s daily act of kindness at a construction site is not just a cheerful game for kids in the hospital but a heartwarming reminder of how small gestures can make a big difference during tough times.