Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation sponsors special prom for Diamond Children’s teen patients

4/1/2025

On Saturday, March 29, the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation hosted at least 100 teenage patients of Diamond Children’s Medical Center and their guests to a special Dunkin’ Prom night at the Arizona Sands Club. The space was decked out for the “Night Under the Sea” theme with vibrant ocean-themed decor and a variety of fun activities for guests, including arcade games, a sand art station, and more. Gadabout Salon Spas provided glam sessions for those in attendance. Dunkin’ added an extra touch of sweetness to the evening with tasty treats and a special appearance by Dunkin’s mascot, Sprinkles.

For many participants who can’t attend their school prom, this special night offered a welcome distraction and a chance to dress up, celebrate, and spend time with friends. The Diamond Children’s Dunkin’ Prom, along with 18 others across the country, is part of the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation’s mission to bring the simple joys of childhood to kids and teens when they need it most.

Banner Children’s at Diamond Children’s Medical Center and the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation recognize the importance of social activities and event participation for teenage patients, which is why both organizations teamed up to create this memorable experience.

"Teen patients face distinct challenges, and they often miss out on typical teenage experiences, such as prom," said Hadley Trull, associate director of Child Life at Banner Children’s at Diamond Children’s Medical Center. "This event was designed to acknowledge their need for celebration and normalcy, providing a space where they could enjoy a memorable prom experience, despite the unique circumstances they face."

This year marks the sixth anniversary since the first-ever Dunkin’ Prom in 2019. The Foundation has hosted more than 60 events in conjunction with children’s hospitals around the country to-date, with 19 proms scheduled for 2025.

"Experiencing prom is a milestone in the lives of many teens. Patients battling health issues or undergoing treatment, may miss the chance to have a special, joyful event with their peers, like prom. Our Dunkin' Prom signature program allows teen patients the opportunity to enjoy a night of laughter and fun - just for them." said Mollie Collum, Director of the Joy in Childhood Foundation. "We are honored to partner with Diamond Children’s to bring this joyful prom experience to the teen patients in Tucson.”

Last month, two teenage patients were crowned prom king and queen at the University of Arizona men’s basketball game. Billy Cronin, 14, and D’Sada Smith, 18, were crowned on the court by Wilbur and Wilma Wildcat. After their royal moment, they enjoyed the game from courtside seats, surrounded by their friends and family, as Arizona secured an 83-66 victory over Utah. The teens then presided over the Dunkin’ Prom on March 29. Billy, a dedicated athlete and student at Cross Middle School, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in September 2024, which led to the amputation of his lower leg. He has been passionate about basketball since childhood, attending a UA men’s basketball summer camp with head coach Tommy Lloyd. Next year, he will start high school at Canyon del Oro, where he is already an honorary member of the basketball team. He sits on the bench during home games, dressed in warm-ups, with hopes of stepping onto the court as a freshman in the fall.

Prom queen D’Sada Smith enjoys baking, traveling and spending time with family and friends. Last year, she was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare cancer affecting nerve tissue, an experience that has shaped her outlook on life. Now a high school senior, D’Sada is looking ahead to college, with plans to pursue a career in pediatric health care or esthetician work.

To help ensure that Diamond Children’s can continue hosting a prom for its patients each year, the Banner Health Foundation has created the Diamond Children’s prom fund and invites the Tucson community to learn how their contributions can help: http://give.bannerhealth.com/diamondprom

To learn more about the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation and its impact in communities across the country, visit www.bringjoy.org.