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.

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Gianna's Story

Gianna
Age 14

New Jersey
Children’s Specialized Hospital

Motor Vehicle Accident

When Gianna was just a year old, she was in a car accident that caused severe head trauma, including a skull fracture. She was immediately rushed to a regional trauma unit where doctors placed her in a coma to help her body cope with the injury. Her heart stopped twice during that time, but with help from Children’s Specialized Hospital, she always fought back to life.

After three weeks Gianna was taken out of her coma but she had no use of her arms or legs. She has been through brain surgery, muscle and nerve treatments, electrical stimulation, and movement therapies. For the past 13 years, she has received constant care from Children's Specialized Hospital. Now 14, Gianna has limited use of her right arm and difficulties with movement in her right leg. She will go to therapy for the rest of her life.

Despite the challenges life has thrown at her, Gianna looks for the positive in every situation. She loves to make those around her smile and her deep concern for others is a true testament of her inspiring character.