Ryan
Age 8
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
Pompe Disease
Ryan is always putting his best foot forward. His every step displays his unique determination and knack for defying odds.
Ryan first challenged the odds at only 10 months old, when he was diagnosed with Pompe disease, an often-fatal neuromuscular disorder. Doctors told his parents not to “have any expectations for your baby,” but Ryan proved them wrong. Even though the disease caused significant muscle weakness in his legs and torso — which led to Ryan developing scoliosis — this guy defies the odds every day with his ability to walk.
Despite his weak muscles, scoliosis and a large plastic brace worn for 12 hours each night, Ryan walks forward confidently. He has a resilient inner strength, is bright and has a positive effect on his classmates.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
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 54 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 17 million children treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals every year. The 2012 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 September, first to Washington, D.C., where they traditionally meet with their state representatives on Capitol Hill and visit the White House. They then take a private chartered flight, provided by Delta Air Lines, to Orlando, Fla. While there, Champions meet Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals corporate partners, hospital representatives and media partners. These groups convene to celebrate a year of medical miracles during the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Celebration event at Walt Disney World Resort.
The Champions program designates a child in every state who has bravely battled a serious injury or illness. The Champions represent the 17 million children treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals every year. The 2012 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 September, first to Washington, D.C., where they traditionally meet with their state representatives on Capitol Hill and visit the White House. They then take a private chartered flight, provided by Delta Air Lines, to Orlando, Fla. While there, Champions meet Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals corporate partners, hospital representatives and media partners. These groups convene to celebrate a year of medical miracles during the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Celebration event at Walt Disney World Resort.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)