From Illness to Joy: Teens with Special Medical Needs Celebrate at ‘Out of This World’ Prom

A group of teenagers with chronic illnesses and special medical needs had the opportunity to attend a prom tailored just for them on Saturday. Nemours Children’s Health hosted the “Out of This World” prom at their children’s hospital in Orlando.

The event was made possible with support from Five Below, Addition Financial, Opera Orlando, Florida Space Institute, BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation, Aveda Salon, and Grove Salon. The goal of the prom was to provide a setting that would be conducive for teen patients who, due to their chronic illnesses and complex health conditions, would not be able to attend a traditional school prom.

Prior to the event, the prom-goers were treated to professional hair and makeup services, adding to the excitement of the occasion. One of the attendees, Harmony Taylor, expressed her joy at being at the prom, stating, “Look at me, I feel so cute.” Taylor is affected by cyclic vomiting syndrome, a condition that causes severe episodes of vomiting and nausea. The hospital made sure to create a special experience for the teens by rolling out the red carpet for this medically inclusive event. This allowed the teenagers to partake in a high school rite of passage despite their health challenges.

The “Out of This World” prom gave these teenagers a chance to create lasting memories and enjoy a night of fun and celebration. Despite their health challenges and limitations, they were able to come together and enjoy a special evening filled with laughter and joy. The event was truly inspiring and showed that anything is possible when people come together with determination and support.