As schools and libraries nationwide kick off events for the beginning of National Reading Month, Second Lady Usha Vance joined in the celebration by reading to young patients at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C.
Vance held the event for patients ages 3 to 12 on Monday, March 2, per a press release from her office. The second lady selected “The Sneetches and Other Stories” by Dr. Seuss, which she mentioned was one of her favorite books to read with her own children. It was also the perfect choice for Monday, which happened to be Dr. Seuss’ birthday.
“Childhood literacy is something that’s very important to me, both as a parent and as someone who grew up reading avidly,” Vance said. “In particular, when children are spending a lot of time in the hospital it’s important that they have access to books, both as entertainment and to ensure they develop the essential literacy skills they will need for the rest of their lives. It’s an honor to spend time with these children and to encourage them to keep reading after they complete their stay here at the hospital.”
The second lady further delighted the young patients by handing out puzzles, stuffed animals, and books after the event. She told the audience that she hosted the event because she loved reading as a child and hoped to encourage children to keep reading voraciously.
“The visit from Second Lady Usha Vance during National Reading Month beautifully reinforces the importance of reading and storytelling in a child’s development and healing journey,” said Elizabeth Wells, MD, MHS, executive vice president, chief clinical officer, and physician-in-chief at Children’s National, noting that the patients could enormously benefit from getting lost in the pages of books.
“Books can provide comfort, connection and a sense of normalcy for children in the hospital. We are sincerely thankful for her time, her compassion and her commitment to supporting kids and families.”
Earlier this year, the Vance family announced the happy news that they were expecting their fourth child together. The vice president, 41, and his wife, 40, have been married since 2014.
With the birth of their new son expected in July, the couple will have joined a small club of presidents and vice presidents to have had a child while in office.
