CHICAGO — On Friday, children in the Chicago area facing significant health challenges received a heartwarming touch of Disney magic.

This event is part of a worldwide Disney initiative designed to spread joy and bring toys and holiday cheer to young patients in children’s hospitals.

Such magical experiences are possible only through the presence of beloved Disney characters.

At Chicago’s Lurie Children’s Hospital, Stitch and Minnie Mouse made a special appearance, aiming to light up faces with smiles and infuse the holiday spirit.

“After a year of mayhem, Stitch is on a mission to secure a spot on Santa’s nice list by spreading holiday magic to families and kids around the world,” explained Shannon Smith-Conrad, a Walt Disney ambassador.

Among the children, Ellie is currently on the mend following a recent injury.

“Seeing Stitch kind of made our day, made us feel a bit more normal after last couple of days,” her father Gabriel Orelov said.

“We strive to make sure we normalize our families’ stays to make sure that we have fun, have a space to feel like kids while they’re in the hospital. And things like this do a great job bringing the outside world into the hospital,” said Mara Smith, Lurie Panda Care Center activities coordinator.

There were plenty of hugs and smiles Friday. And for those too young to remember, it was a welcome respite for their parents, who no doubt have spent countless hours by their side.

The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of this ABC station.