Kristin's Crown

For a child, a hospital stay can feel like stepping into another world—one filled with beeping monitors, long hallways, and unfamiliar routines. Time moves differently in hospital rooms, where days blur together and even the bravest young patients can feel small amid the uncertainty.

In these moments, even the smallest gestures of kindness can mean everything. That’s the heart behind Kristin’s Crown, a program dedicated to bringing a sense of magic and bravery to pediatric patients—one tiara at a time.

A Crown for Courage

When a child is in the hospital, the world outside can feel far away. The simple joys of playing dress-up, imagining adventures, or feeling special can fade beneath the weight of treatments and waiting rooms.

A tiara, shared with love, is more than an accessory. It is a reminder that they are more than their illness, that they are strong, that they are never alone.

This program, created by Nelson Coleman team member Emmaline, honors the memory of her beloved cousin Kristin Faith, by bringing joy to children in pediatric care. Through partnerships with local hospitals, Kristin’s Crown provides tiaras to pediatric units, allowing hospitals to share them with children during treatments, procedures, or moments when a little extra courage is needed. Each crown carries a quiet message: You are loved. You are important. You are not alone.

What started in Frederick, Maryland has now expanded to the Baltimore area, reaching more young patients. As the program grows, so does the hope that more children will experience a moment of lightness during difficult times.

A Community of Care

This program is more than just a turn to play dress-up—it’s a symbol of hope. It’s a way to bring light to children facing challenging medical journeys and to remind families that their child is seen, supported, and surrounded by care.

Six-generation owner and president of Nelson Coleman Companies, Amanda Coleman-Phelps, shared her thoughts on the initiative: "The Kristin's Crown program exemplifies the power of community partnerships in bringing joy to children facing difficult health challenges. We are deeply grateful for our relationship with Jewelers of America, whose generous contribution of tiaras has made this heartwarming initiative possible. Together, we're not just donating crowns – we're bestowing moments of dignity, joy, and royal treatment to children who deserve nothing less during their healing journey."

Kristin’s Crown is an ongoing program, and we welcome hospitals and pediatric clinics to reach out. If you represent a hospital that would like to bring this to your pediatric patients, we would love to hear from you. If you don’t work at a hospital or pediatric clinic but know a child who might benefit from this program, consider reaching out to the staff at their care center about participating.

Because sometimes, the smallest gestures are the ones that stay with us. A tiara, a quiet moment of kindness, a reminder that someone cared when it mattered most.