Construction workers helping to build the new Neurological Institute at Cleveland Clinic have started a daily tradition of waving and making heart shapes with their hands toward four-year-old Brinley Wyczalek, who watches from her hospital room window where she’s being treated for a severely weakened heart. The connection began last month when her father, Travis, shined a flashlight toward the construction site and workers flashed one back, leading to workers posting signs that included messages like “Get Well Soon” and “Praying for you and your family.”
The workers also organized donations for Brinley, including coloring books, games, a signed hard hat and a large stuffed bear. Union carpenter Devan Nail says seeing Brinley makes their work more personal and that the crew wants her to know she has their support.
Brinley has been at Cleveland Clinic Children’s for more than 100 days and is currently on an external heart pump while she waits for a transplant. Her pediatric cardiologist, Dr. Shahnawaz Amdani, explains that when it comes to healing, human connection can make a big difference. Brinley’s mother, Berlyn Wyczalek, says the exchange has shown their family that even during difficult times, there’s a lot that’s good.
Photo: Yellow Dog Productions / The Image Bank / Getty Images
