Open Heart Magic's mission is to help all sick kids get their magic back. Being hospitalized can be frightening for anyone, but especially for a child. Through unique programming, young patients are engaged, empowered, and inspired to face their illness with courage. Volunteer Hospital Magicians deliver personalized bedside magic visits that take kids' minds off their fears, bring them hope, and make them feel stronger to tackle their illnesses.

It all started in 2003, when founder Mike Walton brought sleight-of-hand magic tricks to kids at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. He watched as kids who were feeling sad and isolated rediscovered their sense of fun, laughter and wonder. Open Heart Magic was registered as a 501(c)(3) in 2004 and now reaches kids in children's hospitals in Chicago, Ann Arbor, and Cleveland. To be certified, Hospital Magicians complete an intensive 12-week training at Magic University covering performance, how to engage sick kids, and hospital protocols.