Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Children's Miracle Network Hospitals Champions

Champions is a Children's Miracle Network Hospitals program that brings attention to the important work being done at its 170 children’s hospitals. It does this by honoring 51 remarkable kids who have faced severe medical challenges, and helping them tell their stories.

The Champions program designates a child in every state who has bravely battled a serious injury or illness. The Champions represent the nearly 17 million children treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals every year. The 2011 Champions have dealt with a wide variety of injuries and illnesses including genetic diseases, organ transplants and traumas, as well as various types of cancer.

The Champions travel for a week in October, first to Washington, D.C., where they traditionally meet with their state senators on Capitol Hill, and the President of the United States during a visit to the White House. They then take a private chartered flight, provided by Delta Air Lines, to Orlando, Fla. There, champions meet Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals sponsors, hospital representatives and media partners who all convene to celebrate a year of medical miracles during the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Celebration event at Walt Disney World Resort.

Friday, April 22, 2011

Tess and Alexander's Story

Tess and Alexander
Age 8

District of Columbia
Children’s National Medical Center

Cerebral Palsy

When they think of their futures, twins Tess and Alexander both have buoyant dreams. Alexander hopes to become an astronaut someday, floating weightless and free in the far reaches of space. Tess dreams of long, sunny days serving smoothies at a swim-up pool bar at a posh Caribbean resort.

Whatever the reality of their futures, these siblings are up to the challenge. Tess was diagnosed at age 2 with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Alexander was diagnosed at age 3 with hypotonic cerebral palsy. Both have undergone treatments to increase their mobility, as well as ongoing physical and occupational therapy at Children’s National Medical Center.

Alexander is a proud Cub Scout and honor roll student, and is learning to play the piano. Tess is an honor roll student and a determined Brownie Scout. She recently received an award for being the top fundraiser at a school charity event. Both Tess and Alexander love to swim, take karate lessons, sing in their church choir and ride horses.