SPRINGFIELD – The little patients of Baystate Children’s Hospital received a big surprise this year when Santa brought them Virtual Reality. The big man in the red suit received a little help from area businesses, Link To VR and Robert Charles Photography, who sponsored the event.

Each year, Baystate Children’s Hospital hosts a party for families who can’t bring their little ones home for the holidays. This year, the kids experienced a little holiday magic when they were given the chance to experience virtual reality first-hand.

“Virtual Reality is a very exciting new technology,” said Edward Zemba, president, Robert Charles Photography and CEO, Link To VR. “Not only are there games which can help distract young patients from their pain, but there are experiences which can help them better understand their illnesses.”

Founded in 2016, Link To VR brings virtual reality to businesses, hospitals and educational institutions looking to incorporate the new technology into their business model.

“One of the most exciting opportunities for VR is that it offers an alternative to opiate-based pain management. Add a line about why it serves as an alternative,” said Zemba. “In California, hospitals are already using VR as a way to ease the trauma associated with blood transfusions. Our hope is to permanently bring this technology to Baystate Children’s Hospital and other medical institutions on the east coast.”

During the event, patients experienced a much needed escape from their daily life with the chance to see dinosaurs, swim with blue whales, and build a three-dimensional snowman. For more information on Link To VR, visit www.LinkToVR.com.

“Time and again Robert Charles Photography has stepped up to the plate to help our youngest patients have a first rate experience at Baystate Children’s Hospital,” said Brendan Monahan, Manager of Public Affairs.

“While fundraising campaigns run by Robert Charles have already impacted countless lives, Link To VR adds a whole new dimension to the patient experience and the ability of youngest patients to endure the ailment that has brought them to the hospital for care,” he added.

As the only accredited children’s hospital in the region, Baystate Children’s Hospital provides a comprehensive range of children’s primary care and sub-specialty services — over 50 inpatient and outpatient services in all, including many not found anywhere else in our region.

To make a donation to Baystate Children’s Hospital this holiday season, visit www.rcpfamilies.com.