Why Participate

At her Delaware preschool, teacher Jessica Stevens launched Pajama Day to turn a fun tradition into something deeply meaningful. Inspired by her son, Watson – whose story is featured in Pajama Day materials – Jessica helps her community see the real impact behind every dollar raised. For her students and families, it’s more than wearing pajamas; it’s a chance to support the lifesaving work of CHOP and help children everywhere, from classmates to kids they may never meet.

Orchard Hills Elementary comes together for Pajama Day with a deeply personal purpose: to give back to the place that helped save one child’s life. Teacher Lisa Piccirillo was inspired after her daughter, Rhiannon, received life-saving heart care at CHOP as a newborn and continues follow-up care today. By sharing that story, the school helps students connect their actions to real impact—raising critical funds and awareness while honoring the compassionate, lifesaving care CHOP provides to children every day.

At The Meadowbrook School, Pajama Day is rooted in one teacher’s personal story. Kindergarten teacher Ashleigh Walter launched the event to turn fun into purpose, inspired by her daughters, Lani and Mae, who both receive specialized care at CHOP. Lani is treated for a rare, life-threatening immune disorder, while Mae is closely monitored for a genetic condition. By sharing their journey, Ashleigh helps students see the real impact of their kindness – raising funds and awareness to support lifesaving care for children.

Clara Barton Elementary rallies around Pajama Day with a powerful purpose: to honor one of their own, Laney, and support kids facing cancer. After being diagnosed with a brain tumor at just 2½ years old, Laney endured years of intensive treatment at CHOP, supported every step of the way by her school community and her mother, Nichole Mood. Today, Laney’s story inspires classmates to give back – raising funds and hope for other children, while celebrating the life-changing care that helped her thrive.

At Groveland Elementary, Pajama Day is more than a beloved tradition – it is a heartfelt way to give back to a place that has touched so many lives. School nurse Stacey Hickmott helped champion the event, inspired by the care her own son – and countless students – have received at CHOP. The day brings the community together to honor past students and support those still facing illness, turning compassion into action and raising critical funds for children who need CHOP’s lifesaving care.