Share Your Story
Children, parents, and their stories are what Children's National Medical Center is all about. We want to give you an opportunity to share your firsthand experience with others. We invite you to tell your story as a way to inspire others, give them hope, reflect on your experience, or recognize a physician, nurse, or staff member who shaped your experience.
There are many ways to "donate" to Children's National Medical Center. Some people choose to give money, volunteer, attend fundraising events, or invite their friends to support the hospital. By sharing your story, you are contributing to the success of the hospital in telling the story of Children's National.
Click the Share Your Story button to submit your story online. You can also view all our stories and be inspired by these heartwarming and thoughtful tales from others.
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Below are some frequently asked questions and answers. If you have any other questions about why we're doing this and how your story will be used, contact us by email or call 301-565-8500 and ask for Margaret Cohen.
What kind of stories are you looking for?
We would like to hear personal reflections from patients we have served and their families - their parents, grandparents, or siblings. Some stories may be about children who have fully recovered from an injury or illness; others may be about children or teens who are still dealing with a medical condition; and others may be written by a family member who has lost a loved one and would like to honor his or her memory. Some stories may be about people who were treated 20 years ago; others may be about children who were released recently, or continue to be cared for at Children's National.
How long should my story be?
Your story can be short or long, up to 500 words (about two typed pages).
Do I have to send a photo?
A photo is not required, but it will help make your story more compelling. You can send a photo that was taken at the hospital or at home, and it can be old or recent.
Who can submit a story?
Anyone who would like to share their experience can submit a story. However, children under 18 years old must submit by mail, enclosing a release form 
signed by their parent or legal guardian.
Will all stories be posted?
We will post online many, if not most, of the stories that are submitted.
Will you edit my story?
We may make minor grammatical or style changes to your story, and we may correct the spelling of names. In some cases, we may need to verify medical information with an appropriate physician or his or her team. If you would like to review the final story before it is posted, please note that in your submission. If we have questions, we may contact you for clarification.
Can I submit my story by mail?
Yes! Mail your story, photo, and signed release form to:
Children's Hospital Foundation
Patient Stories
801 Roeder Road
Suite 300
Silver Spring, MD 20910
If you choose to mail your story instead of using our online form, please remember to include your contact information on the release form.
How else can I help?
After your story has been posted, we will send you the link. Then send the web page to your friends and family, so they can read it and learn about other family's experiences. By helping to spread the word about your experience, you are raising awareness of the critical needs of children in our community and the ways in which Children’s National is striving to meet them every day.
