Pittsburgh hospital dresses newborns as Fred (Mister) Rogers
You know its a beautiful day in the neighborhood when you’re surrounded by cute, snuggly babies. Babies in cardigans, to be exact.
In celebration of World Kindness Day, Allegheny Health Network’s West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh dressed up their newborns in cardigans and ties Wednesday.
“In Pittsburgh, we are also celebrating Cardigan Day, in honor of Pittsburgher Fred Rogers, who modeled kindness and compassion to children,” Stephanie Waite, a spokesperson for the Allegheny Health Network, told CNN.
The adorable costumes were inspired by the iconic Mister Rogers, who hosted the children’s television show “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” often while wearing his red cardigan and tie.
“At AHN, we wanted to join in the spirit of kindness with our most adorable ambassadors, our newborn babies,” Waite said.
Parents were able to watch their babies from the nursery window as nurses dressed them up in their costumes and photographed them.
According to Waite, West Penn, one of the network’s eight hospitals and home to its biggest birthing center, often dresses up newborn babies for holidays and special occasions.
“We always get such a positive reaction to the photos — the babies are so adorable,” Waite said. “It puts a guaranteed smile on everyone’s face.”
After the photo shoot, parents got to keep the photos and costumes — cardigan and tie included.
According to WKYCTV, it wasn’t the only Pittsburgh-area hospital to get in on the fun.
UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital also celebrated Rogers’ legacy (as well as National Cardigan Day), and the message of kindness and acceptance that his TV show gave to generations of children, hosting his wife, Joanne Rogers, as a special guest Wednesday.
Rogers walked into the hospital to the sweet sound of dozens of staff members and others singing “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” She proudly joined in the chorus as they all sang the iconic lyrics of the TV show’s opening theme.
A new film about Fred Rogers, “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood,” starring Tom Hanks, is set to premiere Nov. 22.