I’ve organized a lot of events for The 501st Legion, some high profile ones, but by far my favorite events are ones like these. This is the second year I’ve organized an “invasion” of All Childrens Hospital in St. Petersburg, a chance to meet some brave kids and dedicated nurses, and included a visit to the helipad atop the building, with a stunning view of downtown St. Petersburg. Tagging along with us was photographer Alyssa Alives, who took these amazing pictures.
(All pictures copyright Alyssa Alives, alyssamarieaviles.com).
This is a picture atop the helepad that I Photoshopped into a Cloud City background; it felt like Cloud City atop the building.
In the staging area, a Jedi helps Jason into his Wookie costume. This Wookie is not Chewbacca, but Tarfful; Tarfful was a male Wookiee Chieftain of Kachirho who was an old friend of Chewbacca and fought in the Battle of Kashyyyk during the Clone Wars.
I help my good friend Brian adjust the Darth Vader helmet, which is actually two pieces; a front piece, and the helmet
The group picture for this troop, in the lobby of All Childrens Hospital
Wookies can be gentle, tender creatures
Tarfful attracts attention no matter where he goes!
The ability to put smiles on peoples’ faces, especially in a hospital is a powerful, magical thing
A group picture with the dedicated nurses who take care of the children and their families. They are the real heroes
Stormtroopers at play
Darth Vader cheats at air hockey; “I win again!”
Meanwhile, sinister Imperial Officer Magnum and Lord Vader made their way through the complex to secure the operations center, thus securing Imperial control over the facility.
Children have no fear of the huge, imposing Wookie, as his manner is so gentle and child-like as well
Making our way up the ramp to the helipad atop of All Childrens Hospital
A fine way to end a terriffic troop
