CINCINNATI — People from around the world have helped brighten Valentine's Day for patients at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center by sending nearly half a million electronic cards.
The e-valentines came from people in all 50 states, 130 different countries and six continents, according to Liz Smith, the manager of annual giving at the hospital.
"It just warms my heart because each one is someone who took the time to think about our patient families and submit a message," Smith said.
The number of valentines submitted this year shattered last year's record of 220,000, the hospital said in a news release.
Employees have been blanketing the hospital and its satellite locations with the valentine cards. Child Life facility dog Leica helped distribute some to patients, carrying them in her work vest.
Elliot Carter, 3, was one of the patients who received a visit from Leica as she delivered valentines.
"As a mom, it means everything to see your child happy and smiling," Elliot's mom, Leah Carter, said. "It also brings us comfort to know that you have so many people rallying around you."
Anyone interested can submit a card at cincinnatichildrens.org/valentine.
