Money can’t buy happiness…or can it? Right now I’m working hard to raise money for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. But I’m not doing things like running a raffle (because I’m running miles). And I’m not doing jeans days (because I work from home and I usually wear comfy pjs so jeans are kind of a lot of work). I’ve had to get creative with my fundraising and here’s my plan.

I’m going to make people happy, and they are going to pay it forward and donate to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and help kids and families who also need some happiness.

I’ve offered do to things my friends think are funny if they donate to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals! Who doesn’t like to laugh? People love being happy. They need it! And so far it’s been pretty easy.

One friend asked me to drink decaf, which I think must be some kind of trick. But she donated, so decaf it is.

Another friend asked me to revive an old college prank in exchange for a donation. I haven’t done this prank in something like two decades, and I’m not as spry as I used to be. But raising money for the children and families who need our support is worth it. So I did it. And I’ll tell you about the prank and even share the video as long as you promise to donate, too! (Just click here to make a donation.)

But before I do, I want to tell you a secret. You can make people happy too. Your donation to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals may support parents when they arrive at a hospital unexpectedly. They need a little help during their stay, and the money we donate may help provide these items:

1. Toiletries, clothes and other items for parents and the patients that they may not have been able to bring.
2. Meal vouchers and parking for certain long term stay families — the cost of those items can really add up.
3. Toys and games for kids at the hospital who need a distraction. Patient care volunteers sometimes bring these toys to their rooms to play with the kids and give parents a break so they can make a phone call, get something to eat. How great is that?!

OK, back to the prank.

You made a donation, right? 😉

Back in the day, when my friend and I would run a particular street, I used to make her laugh by waiting until a car was coming and then pretending to run into a street sign and collapsing to the ground. Yes, it’s ridiculous. But it’s funny, too. So  the other day I was out on a run, I pretended-ran into a street sign. On purpose. And I made a video.

So if you even crack a smile when you read about this dumb prank or when you watch the video, please make others happy and donate to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals! I don’t care if you’re laughing at me or laughing with me. I do care about the children treated for at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and their families. Show you care too–and spread a little happiness.