"It's so great because they could be doing anything else, and they chose to come here," Sigafus said. "They decided to help out some kids who can't do everything they want to do right now. I think it's awesome."
With a strong interest in broadcasting, Sigafus serves as the sport anchor at her high school. But she isn't letting her time away from campus keep her from being on the air. She and her parents, Patti and David, have worked with the staff at CHOC to arrange for Sigafus to continue her broadcasts from the hospital. Her family is grateful to CHOC for their continued efforts to keep things as normal as possible for their daughter.
"CHOC has been excellent in their care and in just keeping things positive for her," David Sigafus said. "And they provide days like this with the Ducks. We're so grateful."
A longtime participant in this type of community outreach, Bieksa understands how these visits can bring a breath of fresh air to kids and families who endure hospital stays during the holiday season.
"It's a bit of a distraction for them," Bieksa said. "Obviously they're going through some hard times. We're just trying to offer them a little break in the day, get some smiles out of them and have a little bit of fun. It's something that they are enjoying, but so are we. It's something that we always look forward to, especially around the holidays."
His role as dad off the ice provides Bieksa some perspective on the difficulties these families face.
"Being a father of two kids, it's tough to see children in here, fighting and battling," Bieksa said. "But it's inspirational at the same time. They're tough. They don't complain. They're going through some tough times, but they're fighting."
Maria Pelehrinis knows her daughter, Angeliki, is fighting too. The 19-year old college student has been forced to take a break from her studies to receive treatment, and spending time with the Ducks players was just the encouragement she needed.
"For them to take time out to be here and give a little bit of hope, it means so much," Pelehrinis said. "She's trying to win, just like they are on the ice."
Overcome with emotion, Pelehrinis was clear about the impact a simple visit from professional athletes can have on a child who has had her life turned upside down.
"She's overwhelmed and thankful," Pelehrinis said. "It reminds her that she's not forgotten. She needed this."
For more information on the Kits for Kids Donation Drive and to donate, visit
anaheimducks.com/choc
.