Superheroes Visit Kids, Honor "Batman"

Fifteen superheroes gathered on Oct. 21 at Children’s National to visit patients, deliver toys, and honor the late Lenny Robinson, who was better known in the hospital as “Batman.” The Superhero Extravaganza was made possible by the Hope for Henry Foundation, which brings fun and laughter to kids with cancer and other serious illnesses. The event honored the late Lenny Robinson, who had partnered with the foundation for nearly 10 years, dressing up as Batman and visiting sick children. He died tragically in late August.

“We founded Hope for Henry to bring unique experiences, hope, and longed-for normalcy to kids with serious illnesses who spend way too much time in the hospital,” said Laurie Strongin, executive director of the Hope for Henry Foundation. “The superheroes fulfilled this mission and paid tribute to their fallen friend, Lenny Robinson. Lenny just made everybody so happy. When he walked in as Batman, he transformed the whole hospital into a magical world, and many kids didn’t feel like they were sick anymore.”

During the festivities, Strongin presented Lenny’s father, Larry Robinson, the first annual Hope for Henry Superhero Award to celebrate his son’s remarkable life. Larry often visited sick children with his son. The superheroes included Spiderman, Scarlet Witch, Captain America, Black Widow, Star Lord, Nick Fury, Spider-Gwen, Catwoman, Superman, Supergirl, Batgirl, Nightwing, Wonder Woman, Flash, and Green Arrow. Children received toys, including action figures, comic books, capes, wristbands, and Lego sets, and Georgetown Cupcake provided sweet treats with a superhero theme.

Dr. Kurt Newman, president and CEO of Children’s National, said, “Our doctors, nurses, and staff go above and beyond to cheer our kids up and give them a positive experience. Hope for Henry is an important partner in fostering healing and providing kids with joyous experiences. I thank Laurie Strongin and all the superheroes for making our kids smile and for paying tribute to Lenny Robinson, an amazing person who touched so many people’s lives.”