In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives as a hospital worker, hidden beneath the mask of routines and complex tasks, lies an extraordinary force waiting to be unleashed—the superhero within each of us. In a world where we often look to external sources for inspiration and motivation, we tend to overlook the incredible potential that lies within each of us—the power of our inner superhero. On April 28, 2024, to celebrate National Superhero Day, the evening shift team from Transfusion Medicine dived into a fun and creative laboratory activity that not only celebrates their inner superheroes but also gives them a tangible form: a DIY cape.

Unveiling the Superhero Within

Before we embark on our DIY adventure, let’s take a moment to explore what it means to have an inner superhero. Your inner superhero isn’t about possessing extraordinary powers or donning a flashy costume (although, that’s always a plus!). Instead, it’s about recognizing the unique strengths, talents, and qualities that make you extraordinary in your own right. Think about the times when you’ve shown resilience in the face of adversity, or when you’ve lent a helping hand to someone in need. Those are the moments when your inner superhero shines brightest, making a positive impact on the world around you.

DIY Cape Fun Laboratory Activity

Now, it’s time to unleash your creativity and bring your inner superhero to life with our DIY cape fun laboratory activity. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Materials

• A large piece of fabric (old bed sheets, tablecloths, or even T-shirts can work)
• Scissors
• Fabric paint, markers, or iron-on patches
• Glitter, sequins, or any other decorative elements (optional)
• Velcro strips or safety pins
• Iron (if using iron-on patches)

2. Instructions

• Begin by laying out your fabric on a flat surface. Depending on your height and preference, you can adjust the size of the fabric to suit your cape.
• Use the scissors to cut the fabric into your desired cape shape. You can go for the classic superhero cape design with pointed ends or get creative with a unique shape that reflects your personality.
• Once you have your cape shape, it’s time to let your imagination run wild! Use fabric paint, markers, or iron-on patches to decorate your cape with symbols, logos, or designs that represent your inner superhero.
• Feel free to add extra flair with glitter, sequins, or any other decorative elements you have on hand. After all, a little sparkle never hurt a superhero!
• Once your cape is fully decorated and the paint is dry (if applicable), it’s time to secure it around your neck. You can use Velcro strips for easy attachment and removal or opt for safety pins for a more traditional approach.
• Put on your cape, stand tall, and strike a heroic pose. Congratulations, you’ve just transformed into your very own superhero!

Embrace Your Inner Superhero

As you wear your DIY cape proudly, remember that it’s not just a fun accessory—it’s a symbol of the strength, courage, and compassion that reside within you. Whether you’re facing challenges in your personal life, school, or community, know that your inner superhero is always there to guide and empower you.

So, go forth and embrace your inner superhero, knowing that you have the power to make a difference in the world, one heroic act at a time. And who knows, maybe your DIY cape will inspire others to unleash their inner superheroes too!

Monaliza Bermudez, MLS(ASCP)
Clinical Laboratory Scientist III