By: Laura Steiner, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
As the Toronto Blue Jays chase World Series glory, Halton Healthcare hospitals are stepping up to the plate with a wave of team spirit aimed at lifting patients’ and staff morale.
Across Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, Milton District Hospital and Georgetown Hospital, the Blue Jays buzz is unmistakable. Staff and physicians have been sporting jerseys, ball caps and themed scrub caps, while big-screen TVs in waiting rooms and break areas broadcast the games live.
“Our hospitals are full of passionate fans, and this historic run has brought a real sense of excitement and togetherness,” said Cheryl Williams, executive vice-president of clinical operations and chief nursing executive. “Moments like this remind us that care isn’t just about medicine — it’s about connection, community and celebrating what brings people joy.”
The labour and delivery units have embraced the theme with special “rookie” gifts for babies born during key games, including tiny bats, baseballs and Blue Jays keepsakes. Parents can even pick up team onesies in hospital gift shops.
“Welcoming new babies during such a historic time has been incredible,” said Cheryl Hoare, director of women and children’s programs. “It’s a way to make families smile and remind them they’re part of something special happening across the country.”
Halton Healthcare says 12 to 14 babies have been born on average during each game day of the playoff run. One of them, baby Julian, arrived Oct. 19 during Game 6. His father, Mark, a lifelong Jays fan, streamed the game on his laptop.
“I couldn’t cheer quite as much with the baby on my lap, but we were definitely rooting for them,” he said. “Julian is already a Jays fan — that’s not even a question.”
On Oct. 20, when Toronto clinched its World Series berth in Game 7, Marc and Sheena welcomed baby Anabella.
“First thing I asked was if I’m buying this cable package at the hospital because I needed Sportsnet,” Marc said with a laugh. “When they confirmed they had it, I was like, okay, I’ll make the purchase then. There was no way I could miss the game.”
Hospital officials say in-room TV subscriptions more than doubled during the playoff run, with Georgetown Hospital reporting near-full activation during the Jays-Mariners matchup.
Paediatric units have also joined the fun with Blue Jays-themed play carts offering crafts, games and “trading cards” featuring care team members. Baseball scavenger hunts encourage children to move around the floor searching for themed items.
“Sports have a way of bringing people together,” Williams said. “Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just joining the bandwagon, it’s about belonging — and that sense of belonging is exactly what we want our patients and staff to feel every day.”
As the Blue Jays continue their quest for the championship, Halton Healthcare says it will keep cheering — loud and proud.
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