Twelve-year-old Claire Brobson of Harrisburg was on hand to help dedicate the $207 million building. She was treated at the old hospital after being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a type of cancer, in 2007.

Brobson says she thinks the performing arts space, large rooms, and elevators that change color will appeal to kids who are being treated. "It doesn't even seem like a hospital, that much. It seems like just a fun place where kids can recover and have fun."

Brobson's mother, Lauren, says she's grateful for the compassionate care her family received. The new facility is designed to provide comprehensive treatments so that families don't have to travel elsewhere to find care, and Lauren says that's important. "Our family was able to stay together. Our children were able to stay in their schools. My husband was still able to do his work, and I was still able to do my work, and yet, we were still able to get the best quality care."

A parade will be held for children moving from the old building to the new facility when it officially opens in January.

Read an article about Claire's cancer journey and how their family realized that family is always first.

Related stories:

• Learn more about leukemia
• Watch a video of how books can help kids understand cancer
• Learn more about pediatric cancer in this conversation
• Learn about talking to kids about cancer
• Visit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society website for more info. and how you can get involved