[ { "name": "CTA - Newsletter Promo", "component": "16009927", "insertPoint": "1/2", "requiredCountToDisplay": "5" },{ "name": "GPT - RectangleSmallDisplayOnly - Slot Inline - Content", "id": "GPTRectangleSmallDisplayOnlySlotInlineContent", "component": "15166787", "insertPoint": "5", "requiredCountToDisplay": "3" },{ "name": "GPT - RectangleSmallDisplayOnly - Slot Inline - Content", "id": "GPTRectangleSmallDisplayOnlySlotInlineContent", "component": "15166787", "insertPoint": "10", "requiredCountToDisplay": "8" },{ "name": "GPT - RectangleSmallDisplayOnly - Slot Inline - Content", "id": "GPTRectangleSmallDisplayOnlySlotInlineContent", "component": "15166787", "insertPoint": "15", "requiredCountToDisplay": "13" } ]

Young patients in the pediatric unit at Santa Maria's Marian Regional Medical Center were given stuffed animals, coloring books, crayons, and other fun prizes during the week of Valentine's Day, thanks to a project organized by 17-year-old high school student Sophia Ferreira.

Inspired by her own childhood experience of staying in the hospital, Ferreira organized an initiative to donate 40 Valentine's Day-themed gift boxes to help cheer up children at Marian.

"I hope this inspires other young people to find ways to make a difference in their communities," Ferreira, a student at Arroyo Grande High School (AGHS), said in press materials. "You never know how much a small gesture can mean to someone else."

Once a participant of St. Patrick Catholic School's Mercy Projects, Ferreira said she was encouraged by her AVID program teacher at AGHS to organize the Valentine's Day-themed gift drive. Each box in the gift drive contained a variety of items, curated to "bring comfort and smiles" to young patients at Marian.

Ferreira's desire to give back to the community was fueled by her extended hospital stay during her childhood. At age 4, she underwent emergency surgery for a rare bacterial infection.

"I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sophia for her generous donation to Marian's pediatric unit," Chief Nurse Officer Candice Monge said in press materials. "Her kindness and selflessness will make a lasting impact on the lives of many children and families in need of care.

"I am deeply moved by your compassion," Monge continued. "Thank you for your remarkable generosity and for setting an inspiring example for all of us. ... I can attest to how your contribution will enhance the healing environment for our young patients."