Getting into Character: Bringing Smiles to Pediatric Cancer Patients

You never know who you’ll meet at Penny Pincher Costumes. You might encounter Big Bird, Mickey Mouse or your favourite superhero at the costume-rental shop on Concession, just down the street from Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre.

Brenda Eszenyi, owner of Penny Pinchers Costumes, and her boyfriend, Terry Rhodes, began to walk Concession St. every week in 2019 to promote the business. Terry would dress up in costume, and Brenda would take photos and videos.

“During one walk, a staff member from Pediatric Radiation Therapy approached me,” recalls Terry. “He asked if I’d be willing to visit children receiving radiation therapy to cheer them up. I agreed right away.”

Terry and Brenda have enjoyed visiting the Cancer Centre numerous times since the pandemic lockdowns ended.

“It’s amazing to see how he brings smiles to everyone when he’s in costume,” says Brenda. “We feel it’s important to give back to the community however we can.”

The Pediatric Radiation Therapy Program staff are incredibly grateful for the visits.

“Our goal is to make things just a little easier for patients and families,” says Melanie Carrigan, Pediatric Radiation Therapist. “Thank you to our friends at Penny Pincher Costumes, who are truly part of the Juravinski Cancer Centre superhero team.”

Terry and Brenda are also fundraising for The Foundation to support vital equipment purchases and medical research.

“It’s great knowing we can brighten someone’s day,” says Terry. “In life, there’s no ‘me’ – just ‘we.’ And we can accomplish a lot together.”