Published on Nov. 9, 2026
Today, patients at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital got a surprise straight out of the movies when the Los Angeles Ghostbusters arrived for a special visit. With their signature Ectomobile parked outside and proton packs in tow, the volunteer cosplay group brought the world of Ghostbusters into the hospital, giving young patients a chance to experience some of the movie magic for themselves.
During the visit, patients had the chance to put their ghost-catching skills to the test and receive Ghostbusters-themed hospital gowns. Visiting in groups of four, the Ghostbusters saved one spot for a very important recruit: the patient. Each child was invited to become the fifth member of the team, and the Ghostbusters even radioed headquarters to make their newest recruit official.
“It was so much fun seeing the patients’ reactions when the Ghostbusters walked in,” says Arthur Noche, child life specialist, Cherese Mari Laulhere Child Life Program. “Between the gear, the themed gowns and getting to spend time with the Ghostbusters, our patients had a chance to step away from their hospital routine, have fun and just enjoy the moment.”
Events like these bring joy and emotional relief to children facing medical challenges, reinforcing Miller Children’s & Women’s commitment to creating a supportive, uplifting environment where kids can still be kids.
For seven-year-old Cole Swain, the Ghostbusters’ arrival came with especially good timing.
“Cole had just watched Ghostbusters last week, so the timing couldn’t have been more perfect,” said Alyson Swain, mother of Cole. “It was really cool for him to see the Ghostbusters walk into the hospital playroom and get to meet them in person.”
The visit was made possible through the Fandom with a Purpose initiative by Starlight Children’s Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to delivering happiness to hospitalized children and their families. As part of the initiative, Ghostbusters fan groups across the country raised money to fund Ghostbusters-themed Starlight Hospital Gowns, designed to help kids feel like honorary recruits.
“I spent time in the hospital as a kid after a car accident, and that experience never really left me,” says Johnny Pisano, Los Angeles Ghostbusters representative. “It’s a big part of why giving back like this means so much to me. If we can walk into a hospital, have some fun with the kids and give them something to smile about, that’s what it’s all about.”
The Cherese Mari Laulhere Child Life Program at Miller Children’s & Women’s plays a vital role in ensuring that hospitalized children still have opportunities for fun, creativity, and engagement. By partnering with organizations like Starlight Children’s Foundation, the Child Life team creates experiences that lift spirits and make hospital stays a little easier.
