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2007 Hero Kids
The courage, light and resilience of children facing serious illness is a marvel to behold. In many ways they are the greatest teachers of all, reminding us to live in the moment and showing us what things in life really matter.
Portraits of the incredible 2007 Hero Kids were unveiled September 8, 2007 at the annual Celebration of Courage Family Festival, held at the World Trade Center in Portland, Oregon.
Here are our 2007 Hero Kids:
Noah Baderman
Noah turns six this year and is as cute as a button with eyes that sparkle brightly when he smiles. He enjoys reading with his parents and playing games with his siblings (including his twin brother Nate) and cousins. Pizza is his favorite food, hands down. Noah loves trains, too, which largely explains his fascination with the children’s TV show, Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends. His four-legged canine buddies, KC and Daisy, are two of his cherished companions. Noah’s brilliant sense of humor “keeps his family laughing all the time.”
Noah lives with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), one of the most complex cardiac disorders seen in newborns whereby the left side of the heart doesn’t develop properly. It is almost certainly one of the most challenging to manage of all congenital heart defects.
For Noah, HLHS has meant numerous catheters, six months of carrying around an IV pack, seizures, low tone cerebral palsy, and a heart transplant. Being in the hospital a lot and missing school are some of his toughest challenges, according to his mother, Melinda.
Along the way Noah has enjoyed meeting great doctors, race car drivers, baseball players – even Darth Vader. And he keeps fighting, especially when it gets hard. “Noah is a champion. He gets up every day, plays and runs around, and just lives. His strength has taught our whole family never to give up,” states his mother. “Noah doesn’t ever doubt that he will do just fine.”
Jordan Bergman
When Jordan flashes her winning smile (which happens quite often), it lights up the whole room. Always ready to laugh and play at the first possible moment, Jordan’s zest for life is a source of inspiration for her family and friends. She loves to splash around in the pool, play in the park, and color whimsical pictures. And she’d likely win a watermelon-eating contest with ease, given her insatiable appetite for the fruit. Her cousin Rachel is one of her favorite friends, along with Kamille from church.
Diagnosed in 2005 with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), Jordan is no stranger to the extended hospital stays, or the pokes, prods, tubes, and painful procedures associated with treatment. The long periods of hospitalization and isolation are extremely difficult for the whole family.
Throughout this challenging journey, Jordan has never lost her huge smile or her faith, and always sets her sights on the bright side. She cherishes all the new friends she’s met in the hospital, including her CCA Chemo Pal, Wendy. And she accepts difficulties graciously and courageously.
“Even when she is tired or weak, she is strong,” say her parents Brenda and Dan. “How she encourages us is just part of her everyday life. She is a hero to our family in so many ways. And we constantly learn from the courage in her.”
Hillary Brault
Hillary is a 14-year-old girl with a spunky personality that shines through her smile. Nicknamed “Hills” by her family, she craves french fries with ranch dip and enjoys spending time in the pool or watching movies. Anyone who knows her will tell you that basketball has long been Hillary’s preferred sport, and she’s always loved to dance and sing. Hillary listens to pop music and Christian rock. Like most girls her age, she has a wee bit of an interest in boys.
Now confined to a wheelchair as a result of a recent brain stem stroke, Hillary must learn how to walk, talk, eat, and swallow all over again. But none of this has weakened her daily determination to recover. Hillary’s “warrior” attitude guides her through the darkest moments, says her mother Kaylene. “She faces such hard things every day and always manages to get past them. She never gives up. I admire her personal will and strength. Hillary greets each day with a smile…she is our angel.”
With her courageous heart and incredible determination, Hillary personifies the fundamental qualities of a hero.
Yana Brichka
Living with the complications of Nijmegen breakage syndrome – a rare genetic disorder that affects about 1 in 100,000 children – would surely test the perseverance of most people. Not so for nine-year-old Yana. This youngster embraces life with unrelenting passion. Although her condition greatly impacts her ability to be as active as other kids her age, she doesn’t let that get her down. And she never complains, says her mother, Lyudmila.
What Yana is most crazy about are babies – all kinds of babies, whether animal or human – though she’ll quickly tell you that kittens and puppies receive her preferential treatment. The same could be said for her baby brother, who can always look to Yana for countless hugs and kisses.
Yana’s an earnest friend to others and a great student who loves her teachers. She’d eat pizza every day, if given the chance. And she likes only the cutest hair clips. She’s known for having a kind, compassionate character that touches the people she meets. “Yana is such a sweet girl. She has the softest nature.” For her family and friends, Yana remains a wonderful source of inspiration.
Madilyn Louise Colley
Six-year-old “Maddie” could spend hours on end drawing, coloring, or poring over books. Considering how much Maddie loves to play basketball, it’s little wonder she’s such an avid fan of the Lady Ducks college basketball team and Coach Bev Smith. She has no shortage of friends at school and loves all animals, especially her two dogs, Ernest and Ginger. She also adores her baby brother, Owen.
Last year, Maddie was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Her treatment has been long and intensive, ranging from chemotherapy and radiation to spinal taps, biopsies, and a bone marrow transplant. Maddie looks forward to the day when her Hickman line is removed, finally freeing her from the discomfort of having her bandages changed. Yet even after all she’s been through, Maddie shows a strong interest in medicine.
What continually amazes Maddie’s family is her strength of spirit, optimistic outlook, and sense of adventure. Never once known to ask, “Why me?,” Maddie awaits each new day with cheerful anticipation.
“Maddie is a leader and a motivator. She inspires those around her to be the best they can be,” says her mother, Catherine. “She reminds us that tomorrow can bring new challenges, and that those challenges can be overcome with a positive attitude and determination.”
Alanna Doyle
Three-year-old “Alley” is an effervescent little girl with a fantastic sense of humor that seems larger than life. She enjoys playing outdoors with her sister and baby brother, and has never met a sandbox she didn’t like. Alanna’s also a wonderful tea-party host, always dressing up for the occasion. According to her mother, Tiffany, she has quite the sophisticated palate, too, and likes to dine on sushi.
Last year Alanna was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a fast-growing cancer of the striated muscle tissue and the sixth most common form of childhood cancers. Since then, she’s undergone a battery of treatments and procedures, enduring everything from chemotherapy and radiation to surgery and a tracheotomy, which has inhibited her verbal communication.
As a fast learner, Alanna is already mastering sign language, even teaching her nurses and hospital volunteers how to communicate with it. “Alley has never lost her ability to make others laugh,” says Tiffany. “She maintains her inner strength and positive attitude, and continues to fight endlessly every step of the way.”
p>By keeping her head up and her spirits high, Alanna is a living testament to the fact that even the youngest among us can be the bravest heroes.
Max Gardner
On the evening of October 12, 2006, Max suffered cardiac failure brought on by arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD). Medical professionals at OHSU worked furiously to save Max’s life. After one hour without a pulse, nine cardiac shocks, and the administration of powerful heart stimulating drugs, Max’s heart began to beat again. Max remained in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for the next 12 days. When he finally “woke up” in the hospital, one of his first questions was “how much school have I missed?”
That Max survived a cardiac event known to claim the lives of 92% of those it strikes is astounding to his family and friends. Also astounding is Max’s remarkable courage and insistence on jumping back into life, despite the many obstacles he now faces. “Even in the midst of near death and an uncertain future, Max, a 15-year-old, holds true to his nature, never stopping to worry about the road ahead…staying bright, curious, loving, and confident,” says his family.
As Max explains it, the experience has given him a greater appreciation for his family and friends. He’s making super progress and looks forward to taking up his favorite activities once again, such as fencing, cycling, snowboarding, and swimming.
And although he doesn’t consider himself a hero, his extraordinary tenacity and perseverance say otherwise.
James Dean Sebastion Haines
On October 12, 2005, James, now age 10, was headed to a nearby fishing hole after school when he was hit by a car. Doctors told his parents that James might not make it through the night. Beyond the broken ribs, broken scapula, and shattered pelvis, young James had sustained severe trauma to the brain. Life support, a dozen blood transfusions, cranial reconstruction, and foot surgery are just some of the procedures James has experienced in his fight for survival.
Despite the daunting challenges he must confront, including the inability to walk or talk yet, James (nicknamed Jameo) courageously strives to keep going strong. He loves puzzles, country music, and doting on his cat. His list of favorite foods is comprised of pudding, bacon, mashed potatoes, and gravy. Known for having a great sense of humor, James is a “hoot to be around,” says his mother, Mary. Turn on a funny television show or movie and James will be the first to burst out laughing.
“James is so very special. He is such a fighter, which is what has brought him this far,” says Mary. “He was a go-getter before the accident and is still such a trooper today. He is our hero.”
Every day James demonstrates the power of never giving up and never losing hope.
Kianna Santos Hernandez
Take one look at Kianna’s big, beaming smile and you’ll instantly see why this little girl, age four, so easily captures the hearts of everyone she meets. According to her family, she’s quite the entertainer, never missing an opportunity to dance and sing for an admiring audience. Kiki, as she’s often called, marvels at the beauty of butterflies and enjoys the musical sounds of hip-hop and rhythm and blues. She never seems to tire of dining on pizza (with extra cheese!), painting colorful pictures, or making new friends.
After suffering severe burns in early 2007, Kiki has endured extensive hospital stays and a series of painful skin grafts. Her remarkable resolve and strong determination to recover continually astonish those around her, including her sister Roxanna: “With our mother, Leonor, always by her side, Kiki is getter better by the day,” says Roxanna. “Our whole family often forgets that she is only four because she’s grown wise beyond her years. She’s incredible.”
Kianna happily lives by her own special mantra that “being different is okay.”
Adonis L. Johnson
Like most eight-year-old boys, Adonis makes it his job to stay busy. He favors P.E. at school, and would like nothing better than to ride his dirt bike on a daily basis. As a big sports fan, Adonis closely follows the Philadelphia Eagles football team and Dallas Mavericks basketball team. Shrimp and ribs are the two foods that easily delight his taste buds. He loves spending time with his family and playing with his dog and pet snake. Being diagnosed with a malignant tumor hasn’t zapped his cheerful demeanor or radiant spirit.
His diagnosis means weeks of radiation, a year’s worth of chemotherapy, surgery, and physical therapy. The cancer has made walking difficult for Adonis. But still, he welcomes each day with a smile on his face that spreads from ear to ear.
“Since Adonis was diagnosed with cancer, he has remained strong and loving. He continues to be optimistic about his everyday routine. And he is incredibly committed to doing whatever he sets his mind to, despite being ill,” says his mother, Stacy. What would he tell other sick kids like himself? Be strong and don’t worry, everything will be all right. His personal fortitude is sure to help Adonis come out on the other side.
Misty Keobounnam
Misty is a vibrant, fun-loving 10-year-old girl who answers to the nickname “Ty-Ty.” She has a taste for shrimp noodles, a darling Chihuahua dog, and a flair for science and the violin. Ask her what she wants to be when she grows up and you’ll instantly hear the word “doctor.” Misty cherishes her many good friends, never missing a chance to shower them with kindness and affection.
In 1999, Misty was diagnosed with Thalassemia Major, a chronic form of anemia. Because of it, she will require routine blood transfusions and a catheter for the rest of her life. Misty must be very careful about her daily activity levels, as her condition often leads to fragile bones. And her diet must be strictly controlled to limit her intake of iron.
Misty’s life-challenging condition has taught her and her family some powerful lessons, such as how to appreciate life, help others, and give more. “She is so special. Through all her hardships, she doesn’t complain,” says her mother, Kham. And her huge heart guides her every step of the way.
Paul J. Lewis
Three-year-old Paul loves cheese pizza and popsicles that drip down the front of his overalls. Hot dogs and corn dogs also rank high on his list of much-preferred foods. Paul enjoys hanging out with his favorite canine companion, Buck, and has a special fondness for all kinds of trains, including model trains and steam trains. He’s always ready to play football or spend time with his siblings and cousin.
Frequent hospital visits and numerous treatments, coupled with constant testing, poking, and prodding, have all but monopolized Paul’s young life. Living with myelofibrosis, a chronic disease of the bone marrow that’s extremely rare in children, makes Paul very vulnerable to infectious diseases. That means he can’t go outside as often as other kids.
Yet these hardships haven’t dulled Paul’s strong character or good nature – lending credence to the fact that heroes really do come in all shapes and sizes. “He never stops fighting and never gives up,” says his mother, Xue. His fantastic sense of humor is revealed in the way he constantly jokes with the hospital nurses. For Paul, letting his illness get him down is not an option.
Kyle Mabry
Kyle was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy when he was just six months old. Being unable to talk or do things on his own are among the most difficult challenges Kyle confronts each day. Regular trips to the hospital and the disappointment of missing so much school are commonplace for Kyle.
Like a true hero, Kyle won’t allow his condition to stop him from doing what he wants to do or keep him from having fun in the first place. He refuses to stop fighting, and has a wonderful way of putting a smile on everyone’s face.
Kyle’s interests are varied and numerous. He likes to garden, ski, fish, and camp. At age 16, he’s something of a computer whiz and enjoys exploring the online pages of MySpace.com. His favorite food is spaghetti with ranch dressing; his favorite music is pop. Kyle has lots of friends, including his special caregiver Wendy.
With a new communication device, called a Vanguard, Kyle is teaching others how to communicate with him. Unable to move, he uses his cheek to control the device. “He’s very good at getting his point across,” says his mother, Shawna. “Kyle makes no excuses for himself. And he brings a lot of love and joy to his friends and family.”
Kyle’s advice to other young people facing difficult situations is this: “Don’t give up, just keep on trying.”
Samuel W. Marx
Sam, 18, is an exceptional student. He excels in advanced curriculum, is active in student government, and serves as an Eagle Scout. He’s known to be a master debater, not to mention a talented musician, playing the piano, trumpet, and guitar. He enjoys soccer and running cross country. So you can imagine how difficult it was for Sam to miss out on his senior year of high school after being diagnosed with desmoplastic small round cell tumor in 2006.
Surgery to remove several tumors, attempts at stem cell harvest, and the placement of a nasal-gastric tube are just a few of the tough treatments and procedures Sam has bravely endured. That’s in addition to the many side effects of chemotherapy he’s experienced, such as fever, nausea, and fatigue.
Throughout this daunting journey, Sam continues to look at the bright side. He’s thankful that the situation has brought him closer to his family. And he’d advise others facing serious illness to “do everything possible to improve your condition, try your best to live a normal life, and don’t forget your friends and family. Search for something in each day that makes you happy and focus on that.”
Sam’s parents, Jerry and Maggie, are constantly amazed by their son’s patience, strength, poise, and courage living with cancer.
Destinee Melick
At age 11, Destinee, or “Des” for short, is a precocious young girl with an enormous amount of friends. She loves all types of music. Her favorite school subjects are math, science, and art. Horse enthusiast, avid camper, basketball fan – these descriptive terms represent only a few of Destinee’s many interests.
Destinee suffers from Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and sustained brain trauma, which have impaired her ability to walk. Brain surgery, lung surgery, physical therapy, and chemotherapy are among the exhaustive list of procedures she’s had to face.
True to her brave nature, Destinee takes these challenges head-on. “Destinee has always been strong,” say her parents, Stacie and Jason. “Even when she has a hard day, she fights to get through it. She’s an example of what you can really do if you don’t give up. The courage she has had to accept her illness just amazes us. When we are down, she pulls us up. She has shown us how strong our family is.” Today Destinee is in remission and remains resolute in her fight to beat the disease.
Ryder Kai Kenneth Quon
Ryder was born prematurely at just 30 weeks. A year later, Ryder’s parents received the devastating news that he had spastic diplegia, a form of cerebral palsy affecting the legs. Now age 3, Ryder has limited mobility, and is unable to walk, run, or play like other youngsters. He must take multitudinous medications every day and receive injections every few months. Ongoing physical therapy and speech therapy comprise much of Ryder’s weekly routine.
Ryder also participates in special therapy involving horses. So you can probably guess that riding horses has become one of his most-loved hobbies. He also loves going to the zoo and playing with toy bulldozers. Ryder has an eclectic list of favorite foods, including shrimp, bell peppers, curry, rice, seaweed, crab, french fries, and watermelon.
What stands out most to those who know this young hero is his incredibly strong spirit. His charismatic personality and optimistic attitude are equally striking. As his parents, Lora and Eric, explain, “Ryder bravely faces whatever challenges come his way – and gives it his all without ever complaining. He is very determined and always keeps trying with a smile.”
Ryder’s courageous battle against adversity at such a young age is truly remarkable.
Diana Ittzel Sanchez-Hernandez
“Dianita” turned five this year and could handily win a “who’s cutest?” contest. She loves to eat white rice and shrimp. A few of her favorite activities include splashing around in the bathtub, jumping on the trampoline and dressing up in costumes. She’s the kind of girl who’s been known to bust a move to the sounds of pop star Shakira. It’s this love of dancing that has inspired her dreams of becoming a ballerina. Diana’s a big fan of Shirley Temple movies and colorful picture books. And she adores her pet canary named Woody.
In 2003 Diana developed Langerhans cell histiocytosis, a rare disorder that can cause degenerative changes to bones and other parts of the body. Over the past several years, Diana has endured more than her fair share of exhaustive treatments and therapies. Diana says she definitely dislikes having blood drawn and watching all her hair fall out because of chemotherapy.
Diana’s happy to have met so many nice people at the hospital and clinic. Her mother, Angelica, is astonished by how her daughter has faced this disease with such strength. “Even through the darkest days, Diana’s courageous attitude has been a great example for us all,” explains Angelica, who is grateful that Diana has been recognized as a Community Hero. Diana has many ideas of how she’d like to help other children with life-threatening illnesses: “If they have to have blood drawn, I’d give them stickers. And if they needed someone with them, I would hold their hand.”
Samuel Sparks
“Sammi’s” parents call him the miracle baby. Born 11 weeks early with his twin sister, Sydney, this tiny hero weighed only three pounds and one ounce, and reached just 15 inches in length. Both babies suffered from cerebral atrophy at birth. Three weeks later, Samuel and Sydney contracted what was speculated to be a severe virus. Heartbreakingly, this unknown illness would claim Sydney’s life. Samuel’s parents were told it was unlikely that he would survive either – for he had developed sepsis and multi-organ failure.
But Samuel held on despite the overwhelming odds. Today he has no residual effects from the unknown virus he contracted. Although he still suffers from slight cerebral atrophy and some neurological damage that makes his leg shake, Samuel continues to progress by the day and will turn one year old this year.
He loves being hugged, kissed and held. Samuel’s bottle is very important to him, says his mother Tisha. He likes going for walks with his mother and father, and is crazy about Charlie and Dunkin, the family dogs.
“Sam has always been a fighter. I am so proud to be his mother. He is the love of our lives,” says Tisha. Samuel proves that even the tiniest among us can be the most courageous heroes of all.
Terick Caldwell Strauch
In his short life Terick profoundly moved and inspired every person who was fortunate enough to know him. His beautiful smile and unforgettable, sparkling presence were brighter than beams of sunlight. It was as though he exuded joyfulness from every cell of his body. Terick taught his family to search for hope and laughter in every moment, even the darkest ones.
Terick loved being outside, where he could soak in the many sights and sounds around him. He enjoyed all kinds of music. His contagious giggle could often be heard down the hospital halls, especially when he played with his favorite toy, Elmo.
Throughout his courageous battle against bowel syndrome and liver disease, Terick maintained a sense of inner peace, contentment, and quiet courage that few people ever possess. “Every day was a blessing with Terick,” says his mother Laura. “He was always such a pleasant and happy baby even after everything he had to go through.”
The memory of this extraordinary young hero will forever remain etched in the hearts of his loving family and the many other people he deeply touched.
Edward M. Talbott
Edward, age 12, liked to go by the nickname “Ed.” Paintball and video games gave him a great deal of pleasure, as well as bodysurfing in the ocean. An all-you-can eat pizza and ice cream buffet was Edward’s idea of a perfect dining experience. He had an affinity for the artist’s way. And he frequently asked his mother, Janet, when he could get a dog or cat. Edward enjoyed hanging out with family and friends, and he took the responsibility of helping others very seriously, always looking to lend a hand.
As a result of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), Edward’s world largely revolved around extensive medical treatments and painful procedures. The time spent away from his family, his inability to go swimming, and the days of missed school are what Edward defined as some of the biggest challenges of living with AML.
But what he found most rewarding about his condition was the kindness of the many wonderful people he met throughout the journey. Edward recognized that a hero faces great challenges and strives to overcome them. He lived by those words every day.
“With strength and wisdom beyond his years, Edward has confronted his illness,” his mother said toward the end of Edward’s life. “He always takes the time to talk to other sick kids who might be afraid and is always willing to share his generous heart.”
Syrus Tibbett
Syrus, 14, was born with an extremely rare congenital disorder, Nager Syndrome, of which there are only around 90 documented cases to date. For the first five years of his life, Syrus had to live with a breathing tube. He’s endured major surgeries, and has more to come. Syrus must eat through a tube in his stomach. And verbal communication can be frustrating for him sometimes because his speech is impaired.
None of this holds him back. His unwavering determination to achieve his goals is extraordinary. His family describes Syrus as a remarkable person who doesn’t worry needlessly. He confronts his challenges head-on and in the moment, then bravely moves on to the next hurdle.
“Syrus faces his condition with such dignity and grace. He reminds us all to be grateful in our day-to-day lives because he has had to fight for the simplest things like breathing, eating, walking, and talking,” says his mother Dawn.
Syrus finds enjoyment in listening to music. Hip-hop and rock ‘n’ roll make the top of his list. For Syrus, one of the most rewarding things about living with his condition is that he’s met some very famous people, including Cher, the Pussycat Dolls, and professional wrestler Triple H.
Becky West
Becky, 18, is a beautiful young woman whose generous, selfless nature stands out above all else. She loves spaghetti, hanging out with friends, and going to the movies and the mall. Just two years ago her family moved to the country, where Becky looks after an abundance of beloved animal friends, including chickens, goats, ferrets, cats, rabbits, and two riding horses, Felix and Cody. Ask her in what subject she excels at school, and she’ll say “math.” Ask about her favorite tunes, and she’ll name “country music.”
Since her diagnosis of osteosarcoma with metastases in 2004, Becky has endured 12 thoracotomies, or major surgical procedures that open the chest wall. Subsequently, chemotherapy and radiation have taken up a large part of her life. Despite the daunting challenges of cancer treatment, Becky insisted on graduating from high school with her friends as scheduled. Although she suffered from pneumonia at the time, Becky proudly walked across the stage at her graduation ceremony – and received two standing ovations from her friends, family, and classmates.
That fact that she tires easily and gets sick all the time makes life more challenging than ever for Becky. But her situation never gets her down. “I’m a better person for it. I’ve grown up and matured faster. It’s made me realize what’s important and brought me closer to my family and true friends,” says Becky. Her kindness, compassion, and incredible persistence are the measure of real heroism.
Naomi Williams
Little Naomi, or “Princess” as her family lovingly calls her, is nothing if not resilient. Being diagnosed recently with Large B Cell Lymphoma hasn’t slowed down her pace in the least, says her father, Demarcus. “She has been a real trooper, handling all of her medical challenges with such ease. While getting her chemotherapy treatments, she’d waste no time in running around and playing in the hospital. It was like any other day to her.”
She extends that same energy to her favorite activities, like taking trips to the park, devouring sausage pizza, and making crazy figurines out of Play-Doh. Canines of all sizes and hip-hop music are also among her favorite things.
At three years of age, Naomi possesses a certain courage and grit far beyond her years. This young hero has taught everyone who knows her that perseverance is great medicine. And her dad is proud to say that Naomi is the best patient her doctors have ever seen.
Erik Wolfe
Erik, who celebrated his eighth birthday in July, was a sweet, happy little boy who “loved trucks, trucks, and more trucks.” He was equally fond of riding his battery-operated tractor. As his mother, Lanai, put it, Erik had a special penchant for telling jokes and silly stories – and especially for teasing his grandmother. He liked dining out at his two favorite restaurants, the Outback Steakhouse and Baja Fresh. Given his love for sugar cookies, it’s no wonder Erik enjoyed baking them as well. His best friends were his big brother, Gunnar, and two Mickey Mouse toys that he took with him wherever he went.
At just eight months, Erik had a tracheotomy. At two, he underwent thoracic surgery. Throughout much of his young life, Erik required supplemental oxygen, and had been on a ventilator around the clock.
To date, there is no known diagnosis for what plagued him. Yet this uncertainty didn’t dull Erik’s beautifully kind nature and brave heart. “Erik doesn’t view his life-challenging conditions as difficult,” said Erik’s mother toward the end of his life. “He embraces all of the obstacles that are thrown his way with a true fighting spirit. His vibrant soul and eternal optimism are an inspiration to his family, friends and acquaintances.”
Erik’s sense of humor and enthusiasm for life delighted anyone who crossed his path. His can-do attitude and constant courage are heroic attributes to be emulated and embraced.
Eddie Zermeno
“Compassionate, patient and loving.” These are just a few words that characterize “Eddie Z.” His positive attitude and quick smile brighten each day at The Center for Medically Fragile Children at Providence Child Center, where Eddie lives with 19 other kids.
As a result of Cerebral Palsy and Microcephalus, Eddie is completely dependent on professional caregivers for all daily activities – a situation that hasn’t dampened his joyful spirit. Despite having physical and hearing impairments and being unable to live at home, Eddie Z sets a remarkable example of how it is possible to live life to the fullest no matter what.
Eddie enjoys watching people act silly and playing with helium balloons. He loves taking field trips to local hockey games and riding the MAX train. Eddie gets a big kick (and quite a few laughs) out of the occasional “food fight.” At age 16, hanging out with his roommate Cooper and good friend Susan is one of his favorite pastimes.
“Eddie possesses a sense of happiness and contentment you rarely find even in people without disabilities,” says one of his caregivers, Taryn. “He is incredibly accepting of others, and so giving to everyone in his life.” Indeed, there are many valuable lessons to learn from this young hero.
