A Virginia "Heroes with Heart" winner, April O'Quinn, now has her very own American Girl Doll. The doll company ran the contest, and they chose five national winners after a nationwide call for nominations.
Dedication to work
O'Quinn's niece nominated her because she is an ambulance worker at Richmond Ambulance Authority (RAA). Her niece, Lacey, lives in Texas, and she always tells people about her "Aunt April." The young girl explained to American Girl that her aunt got infected with the coronavirus.
After recovering from the deadly disease, O'Quinn chose to return to work. Lacey wrote on her contest submission that her aunt did not hesitate even for a moment to return to work. A month ago, the niece received a phone call to hear the exciting news.
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No words to explain her happiness
O'Quinn told WTVR news that her niece was screaming on the other side saying that they won. She was in shock and could not find words to describe how she felt. She said she ended up crying and did not know what to say.
She explained that via video chat, she watched her niece unbox the doll after receiving it in the mail. She could not believe it because the likeness was pretty remarkable. O'Quinn said that the stars and brightness in the doll's face and eyes were amazing.
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Memorable moments
Not only did O'Quinn won a one-of-a-kind custom-made doll wearing the outfit similar to her uniform, but she also received a $250 gift card. She explained that her winnings are something she and her niece will never forget. She explained that it is a bond that she will hold forever with Lacey.
In June, American Girl started making and selling outfits for their dolls that are inspired by the outfit worn by medical workers. The doll company calls it "Scrubs Outfit." Each set includes a colorful nurse's top, pink scrub pants, a matching fabric face mask, and slip-on shoes.
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It is the doll company's way of thanking everyday heroes. For every outfit sold, the Mattel subsidiary will donate to the "First Responders Children's Foundation." It is a foundation that supports kids of first responders who sacrifice their lives to fight the coronavirus.
The buyer will also get free doll masks to promote the use of face masks. The company also released a video on how to make doll masks so kids could also make them at home. Jamie Cygielman, the company general manager, said that they love celebrating acts of courage and compassion.
They also proudly honor heroes and the dedicated healthcare workers because they put their lives at risk to keep everyone around them safe.
