NationwideChildrens.org/Marathon #MeaningfulMilesChallenge
2 OCTOBER 15, 2020 • THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEANINGFUL MILES
What a year it has been! So many of us are experiencing challenges like we have never faced in our lifetime and, as you can imagine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital is no exception. Childhood diseases and behavioral health needs do not take a day off because of COVID-19 and we can’t either. Although the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & 1/2 Marathon is canceled this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic conditions, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the patients we treat still need your support. We invite you to participate in the Meaningful Miles Challenge in partnership with the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & 1/2 Marathon. It’s simple – register to commit to 13 or 26 Meaningful Miles challenges while incorporating running or walking to make a difference in your community. Perform small acts of kindness to make a BIG impact. Once you register, you will receive a step-by-step guide on how to get started! By registering for this challenge, you are helping make our mission possible: to provide the highest quality of health care regardless of the family’s ability to pay.
Register at NationwideChildrens.org/Marathon
Meet the Patient Champions!
Even though we won’t race together for the 2020 Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, we still have a reason to celebrate! Meet our Meaningful Miles Challenge Patient Champions! These kids are treated at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and represent all the patients we treat. These Patient Champions will be invited back to participate in the next race. Read their incredible stories.
NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEANINGFUL MILES
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH • OCTOBER 15, 2020
MEET ADRIANNA
MEET ANDY
Adrianna was unexpectedly diagnosed with Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and hip dysplasia at three days old. Due to her hip dysplasia, she was required to wear a Pavlik harness to keep her hips aligned in their joints until six months of age. At six months old, Adrianna underwent a hip surgery that required her to be in a full body cast for three months, and a body brace for the following six months.
From the moment Andy was born, he had trouble eating and gaining weight. When Andy turned two, he was diagnosed with Gastroesophageal reflux disease. After many years of encountering problems due to his oral aversion, his doctors implemented a Gastrostomy button to help maintain his nutrition. In 2016, Andy was diagnosed with Gastroparesis. His doctors changed his Gastrostomy tube to a Gastro-Jejunal tube, which then prevented him from eating by mouth. After this diagnosis, his local Gastroenterologist in Oklahoma referred him to Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Adrianna’s CMV affected her brain, spleen, liver, platelets, and hearing. She was diagnosed with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and received her hearing aids when she was four months. She recently went under unilateral cochlear implant surgery and it changed everything for the better. Hometown: Lima, Ohio Age: 5 years old Diagnosis: Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Hip Dysplasia, Bilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss, Cochlear Implants
Adrianna loves to blow bubbles, color, sing songs and socialize. As you participate in the Meaningful Miles Challenge in 2020, we know Adrianna’s smile and positive outlook on life will provide you with the motivation to keep going. Learn more about Adrianna and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Adrianna
Hometown: Mounds, OK Age: 12 years old Diagnosis: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Gastroparesis
Diagnosis: Ewing’s Sarcoma Cancer
Hometown: Powell, OH Age: 17 years old Diagnosis: Major Depressive Disorder
Learn more about Andy and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Andy
MEET AUGUST “AUGIE”
In the summer of 2019, Aria had a bump on her head and within just a couple months the bump got larger. She also began having headaches and was missing routine throws and catches during softball.
In April 2018, when Augie woke up in the middle of the night with an upset stomach, his parents never imagined it was being caused by a brain tumor. When they arrived at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Augie’s physicians had given his family the news. The tumor was sizable, and it was blocking the release of spinal fluid and compressing his brain. Within a few days, Augie had the tumor removed, but he had major infection in the brain resulting in the need for another surgery and a fight against hearty bacteria.
When Aria was in treatment, her father promised her that the following year she would be free from disease and he would run the Marathon for her. They both kept their promises. Aria has been cancer free since June 2019 and her father ran the Marathon for her last year.
Age: 12 years old
Andy is travelling the distance to get the care he needs, and he knows that you can too during the Meaningful Miles Challenge.
MEET ARIA
Aria had an MRI done which showed there was an even bigger bump inside her skull. Aria was ten years old when she was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma.
Hometown: Dublin, OH
Andy and his family travelled from Oklahoma to Columbus where they met with his new physician. The team found that Andy was a candidate for the gastric pacemaker. Andy had the pacemaker implanted in March of 2018 and his life changed drastically for the better.
Aria loves cheering on the Columbus Blue Jackets. She is excited to be a Patient Champion for the Meaningful Miles Challenge so she can share her story with other kids facing difficult medical situations. Learn more about Aria and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Aria
Hometown: Columbus, OH Age: 5 years old Diagnosis: Pilocytic Astrocytoma Tumor and Stenotrophomonas Maltophilia Infection
After Augie’s infection had been treated and his scars were healing, somehow, a molecule of the tumor remained hidden in his brain and a third brain surgery was necessary. Today Augie is tumor-free, happy and healthy. As you complete your Meaningful Miles Challenge, remember that Augie and his family are cheering you on every step of the way. Learn more about Augie and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Augie
MEET BRIDGETTE
MEET BROOKLYN
Bridgette was 14 years old during her first visit to Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She was evaluated for suicidal ideation and was sent home with a safety plan.
Brooklyn’s been a fighter since the day she was born. For her first year of life, she was only given a 20 percent chance of survival. She was diagnosed with several heart defects as well as Down Syndrome.
One year later, Brigette spent ten days inpatient with the Nationwide Children’s Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) program was different.
At six days old, Brooklyn had her first open heart surgery at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
During Bridgette’s inpatient hospitalization, she spent time on the Psychiatry floor. She developed friendships with some of the other younger patients who made a lasting impact on her journey to recovery. Bridgette says, “Nationwide Children’s brought out a sense of confidence in me. I wasn’t afraid to ask for help and because of this I am truly a much better and happier person.”
Brooklyn only continues to persevere and overcome her challenges. Now, at age six, Brooklyn has undergone two open heart surgeries, experienced a collapsed lung that left her on a ventilator for seven weeks, had a tube placed in her left lung to drain fluid build-up, as well as countless other procedures.
Bridgette’s been in private therapy since January 2019. Every day is challenging, but she has found ways to help her cope. Bridgette will be smiling and cheering on all the participants in the Meaningful Miles Challenge in 2020. Learn more about Bridgette and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Bridgette
Hometown: Lima, Ohio Age: 6 years old Diagnosis: Down Syndrome, Truncus Arteriosus Type 2, Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)
Today, Brooklyn is thriving in school. She’s made many friends and her teachers and therapists adore her. Brooklyn hopes to provide positivity and inspiration to those who participate in Meaningful Miles Challenge this year and wants everyone to keep smiling! Learn more about Brooklyn and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Brooklyn
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4 OCTOBER 15, 2020 • THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEANINGFUL MILES
MEET CLAIRE
MEET ELYANA
When Claire was born, she appeared to be a healthy, happy baby. Unfortunately, that was not the case when she returned to the hospital for her ten-day checkup. Claire quickly was rushed to receive open-heart surgery.
Elyana was adopted from China when she was two years old. Her adoptive parents knew she had been diagnosed with Spina Bifida, but they knew very little about the disease until they visited Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s International Adoption Clinic.
Claire’s condition did not limit her from achieving her dream. She is proud and grateful to say that she received a full scholarship to be a gymnast on The Ohio State Women’s Gymnastics team.
When Elyana started Kindergarten, she began facing challenges with her bowel and bladder control. They decided to attend the Bowl and Bladder clinic where the nurses and clinicians taught Elyana self-care and began taking all the fear out of the unknowns.
Claire volunteers with her teammates at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and she would love to become a Child Life Specialist one day. She loves visiting the hospital for her follow up checkups every two years because it feels like home there. Hometown: Hubbard, OH Age: 20 years old Diagnosis: Coarctation of the Aorta
Claire will be easy to spot with her bright smile and enthusiastic encouragement to all the participants who pass through her mile in 2021 but in the meantime, she’ll be cheering you on from afar during the Meaningful Miles Challenge. Learn more about Claire and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Claire
Elyana has had two surgeries and numerous testing and therapies due to her diagnosis of Spina Bifida. After every surgery, she amazes her doctors with her determination and motivation to get better. Hometown: Findlay, OH Age: 8 years old Diagnosis: Spina Bifida Sponsor: Lbrands
MEET HAILEY
Gianni’s journey at Nationwide Children’s Hospital began in 2017 when he was referred to Gastroenterology (GI) for chronic constipation. After eight months, he was sent to another specialist within GI and was put on the path to a diagnosis.
On July 11, 2018, Hailey’s entire family was in the car when they were hit by a distracted driver that ran a stop sign going 55 miles per hour. The car flipped and went through a telephone pole. Hailey was air lifted to Nationwide Children’s Hospital where the doctors explained that that Hailey had suffered a traumatic brain injury. Her parents were warned that their daughter may not make it through the night. After 11 days on a ventilator and two and a half weeks in the Intensive Care Unit, Hailey began working on rebuilding her motor skills. She had to re-learn how to talk, walk and eat solid foods again.
Although he has met all milestones on time, Gianni has always had trouble with stairs. He wears ankle braces to give him stability and assistance. Age: 5 years old Diagnosis: Spinal Muscular Atrophy (type 3) Sponsor: Superior Group
Hometown: Dublin, Ohio Age: 9 years old Diagnosis: Cerebral Palsy
Learn more about Elyana and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Elyana
MEET GIANNI
Gianni’s family learned that he had low muscle tone, an abnormal gait and gross motor delay. An electromyography and nerve conduction test showed abnormal results and a genetic blood test was ordered. Gianni was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) two days after his third birthday.
Hometown: Blacklick, OH
Elyana finds joy in new experiences and learning or reading any book she can get her hands on. Those who participate in the Meaningful Miles Challenge in 2020, we know Elyana will provide you with the determination to keep going.
Gianni loves superheroes and cars. Hockey is his favorite sport, especially the Columbus Blue Jackets and The Mighty Ducks. As you participate in the Meaningful Miles Challenge this year, remember everything that Gianni has overcome as motivation to keep going!
Hometown: London, Ohio Age: 12 years old Diagnosis: Traumatic Brain Injury
Hailey was at Nationwide Children’s Hospital for a total of seven weeks. She is now a cheerleader at World Cup Ohio. Hailey will be cheering on all the participants in the Meaningful Miles Challenge. Learn more about Hailey and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Hailey
Learn more about Gianni and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Gianni
MEET HARUKA
MEET JASON
Haruka was born premature and hospitalized for almost two months in Japan. When she turned two years old, she was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy.
Jason was born with Trisomy 15, a rare chromosomal condition. Doctors told his parents that they had a better chance of winning the lottery than Jason surviving.
After her diagnosis, Haruka began to wear leg braces and started therapy at a hospital in Japan. Her family moved to Ohio when she was three years old and she started treatment at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
For ten years, Jason only had focal seizures in one hemisphere of his brain. In 2012, he had his first grand mal seizure and was diagnosed with Epilepsy.
Haruka participates in The Comprehensive Cerebral Palsy (CP) Program. Although there is no cure for CP, Haruka’s team of doctors formulated a treatment plan to reduce the effects of her CP. This past August, Haruka underwent a surgical procedure to correct some of the deformities between her femur and hip joints. Her team hopes this surgery will improve her mobility, posture and ensure healthy growth. Haruka enjoys reading, arts and crafts, dancing and singing. Haruka will motivate all those participating in the Meaningful Miles Challenge with her high energy and contagious smile. Learn more about Haruka and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Haruka
In order to treat Jason’s Epilepsy, his physicians recommended a Complete Corpus Colostomy, to prevent the seizures from spreading from one half of the brain to the other.
Hometown: Toledo, OH Age: 18 years old Diagnosis: Trisomy 15, Epilepsy
On May 2, 2017, Jason was taken into brain surgery. He spent 60 days inpatient at Nationwide Children’s Hospital after his surgery. He didn’t talk for 26 days, he had to re-learn to feed himself and walk. Since returning home, Jason has fallen back in love with his favorite sport of football. He is his high school team’s biggest fan. Jason’s positive attitude and spirit will inspire all who participate in the Meaningful Miles Challenge. Learn more about Jason and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Jason
NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEANINGFUL MILES
Hometown: Hillard, Ohio Age: 16 years old Diagnosis: Severe Persistent Asthma, Eosinophilic Esophagitis, Vocal Cord Dysfunction, Dysphagia Sponsor: Nationwide
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH • OCTOBER 15, 2020
MEET JENNA
MEET LUNA
Jenna was born at 29 weeks and was in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for approximately three months with multiple severe health concerns. She faced many ups and downs with long term respiratory and trachea issues that evolved into chronic severe asthma.
Luna first came to Nationwide Children’s Hospital to consult with the Suicide Prevention Program. They had struggled with their gender identity and mental health throughout their entire life and were seeking a way to heal.
Jenna has been a patient of the Chronic Asthma and Allergy Clinics at Nationwide Children’s since she was an infant. However, her asthma doesn’t stop her from doing the things she loves. Jenna stays active by participating in sports and plays soccer, basketball and runs track (hurdles) for her high school. She would love to study criminal justice and has expressed interest in becoming a police officer. She has two dogs that her family rescued who absolutely love her too!
Luna soon received a referral to the THRIVE program, and with the help of the clinicians there, they have been able to explore their gender identity. THRIVE is a program that specializes in care for differences/disorders of sex development (DSD), complex urological conditions, and gender concerns.
Jenna enjoys meeting new people and excels in building relationships. As you participate in the Meaningful Miles Challenge this year, remember the obstacles that Jenna has had to overcome as motivation to never give up! Learn more about Jenna and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Jenna
“The THRIVE program means the world to me, helping me discover who I am and where I belong,” says Luna. Hometown: Columbus, OH Age: 16 years old Diagnosis: Gender Dysphoria, Anxiety, Depression
Learn more about Luna and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Luna
MEET MORGAN
MEET NEIL
Morgan was treated very early on for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). When she was around seven months old, she couldn’t hold anything down, refusing bottles, breastfeeding and would only dream feed. In July 2019, Morgan had a nasogastric (NG) tube implanted.
Neil was diagnosed with Mixed Phenotype Acute Leukemia on January 11, 2019 after being sick for several weeks with what was thought to be a stubborn virus. This diagnosis—a rare type of leukemia—was devastating to Neil and his family.
An NG tube is meant to be used on a temporary basis, so Morgan’s parents began researching feeding programs and found that she was a perfect candidate for Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s intensive feeding program.
Throughout his treatment, Neil has remained positive. He recently started participating in “normal” activities again. He enjoys spending time with friends, playing video games and watching his favorite shows. He has worked hard to regain mobility and get healthy, all while keeping his sense of humor. He loves telling stories and jokes to any audience and wants to help other kids going through the same thing or facing similar challenges.
When Morgan entered the program, she had her NG tube, but at her graduation from the program, she wasn’t dependent upon her tube anymore and has since been eating and growing on her own ever since. Hometown: Westlake, OH Age: 3 years old Diagnosis: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Oropharyngeal Dysphagia
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio Age: 2 years old Diagnosis: Intestinal Malrotation Sponsor: Alliance Data
Luna is an artist and writer who loves drawing, photography, and hanging out with friends. As you participate in the Meaningful Miles Challenge in 2020, we know Luna’s story will provide you with the encouragement, strength and dedication to be a champion!
Morgan loves puzzles, everything Anna and Elsa, spending time with her family, and going to the park. During this year’s Meaningful Miles Challenge, we know Morgan will provide you with the smiles and inspiration to go above and beyond!
Hometown: Dublin, OH
Learn more about Morgan and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Morgan
Sponsor: Greif
Age: 14 years old Diagnosis: Mixed Phenotype Acute Leukemia (MPAL)
During this year’s Meaningful Miles Challenge, Neil will provide participants with the encouragement to keep a sense of humor when the going gets tough and to never give up. Learn more about Neil and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Neil
MEET NORA
MEET QUENTIN
Nora was born unexpectedly at 30 weeks, after an ultrasound revealed that her mother had incredibly low amniotic fluid. Nora was born within 30 minutes of that ultrasound and immediately taken to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Quentin was born premature at 25 weeks and had his first brain surgery when he was two weeks old. Quentin had a grade IV Infantile Intraventricular Hemorrhage, a severe brain bleed where he needed to have a shunt placed.
Nora was a fighter, weighing only 2Ibs 11oz. However, at seven days old, her nurse noticed that she was unable to keep milk down and was spitting up excessively. Her physician completed some X-rays and she was transferred to Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Nora needed emergency surgery for a malrotation of the bowel.
Quentin spent 316 days in the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). During his stay, he had a second brain surgery, a procedure to close the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in his heart, and a gastrostomy tube placement surgery. After 316 days, Quentin was brought home on oxygen and 22-hour continuous jejunostomy tube feeds and several medications.
Near the end of her time in the NICU, Nora was having many bradycardia episodes. This required Nora to stay longer and she spent a total of 47 days in the NICU. Nora looks forward to encouraging all who participate in the Meaningful Miles Challenge in 2020 and can’t wait to make some new friends along her mile next year during the Marathon! Learn more about Nora and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Nora
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio Age: 7 years old Diagnosis: Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD), Asthma
Quentin enjoys learning and playing with his friends at school. One of Quentin’s favorite things to do is watch sports on with his dad. As you participate in the Meaningful Miles Challenge in 2020, Quentin will be celebrating you ever step of the way! Learn more about Quentin and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Quentin
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6 OCTOBER 15, 2020 • THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Hometown: Senecaville, OH Age: 12 years old Diagnosis: Apert Syndrome
Hometown: Hilliard, Ohio Age: 7 years old Diagnosis: Autism, Epilepsy, Gtube, Eosinophilic esophagitis, ADHD, Keratoderma palmaris et plantaris
NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEANINGFUL MILES
MEET RAEGAN
MEET SAVANNAH
Nationwide Children’s Hospital has been a part of Raegan’s life since the day she was born. Raegan was born with a rare, genetic disorder called Apert Syndrome. Apert Syndrome is a craniofacial disorder in which the joints in a newborn baby’s skull close too early.
Savannah was just ten years old when she began taking college classes. She had always been very active with dance and basketball, but when she began taking college courses, she stopped dance and basketball to focus on her studies. Suddenly, her weight began to increase rapidly.
Early in infancy, Raegan underwent cranio-surgery to give her brain room to grow. As she grew up, she received multiple intensive surgeries to move her face forward. These surgeries would allow her to breathe better, give her better protection of her eyes, improve her bite, lift her eyelids up, and the ability to close her eyes.
Savannah was diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease, a serious condition of an excess of the steroid hormone cortisol in the blood level caused by a pituitary tumor secreting adrenocorticotropic hormone. Savannah’s physicians quickly created a surgery plan and successfully removed a tumor from her pituitary gland in May 2019. She has been growing and losing weight ever since.
Those who pass through Raegan’s mile in 2021 on the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & ½ Marathon will gain a smile and a friend. And during the Meaningful Miles Challenge in 2020, we know Raegan will provide you with the resilience to keep going. Learn more about Raegan and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Raegan
Hometown: Columbus, OH Age: 12 years old Diagnosis: Cushing’s Disease Sponsor: Dispatch
MEET SOFIA
Simon was born in 2013 and thought perfectly healthy. The first weeks led to serious concern, as he was not eating, losing weight, and sleeping nearly 20 hours a day. The first year of his life was fraught with feeding difficulties, multiple hospitalizations and placement of a feeding tube.
Sofia spent July 4th, 2019 swimming, eating s’mores and watching fireworks. It was no surprise when Sofia complained of a tummy ache that evening. After all, she had consumed a ton of sweets!
As Simon has gotten older, his medical complexities continued to become more complex - autism, brain abnormalities, neutropenia, genetic abnormalities, epilepsy, skill regression, eosinophilic esophagitis, ADHD, keratoderma palmaris et plantaris, and he is predominantly non-verbal.
Sofia’s stomachache persisted, so her parents took her to the doctor. An X-ray pointed to possible gas and eliminated any issues related to her appendix. However, on day three, Sofia was lethargic, vomiting and could no longer walk. A trip Nationwide Close to Home revealed a diagnosis of Henoch-Schoenlein Purpura (HSP).
Simon is now seven years old and is thriving – both in growth and cognition. He is reading, writing, learning and even talking – both with his Talker and his mouth. Simon is now able to eat and drink by mouth; he uses his feeding tube for medications and supplements.
HSP is a disorder that causes the small blood vessels in your skin, joints, intestines, and kidneys to become inflamed and bleed. Sofia endured many trips to the hospital and spent the past 12 months under observation of her kidneys. This July, she received a clean bill of health!
Simon’s sunny smile and joyful approach to life is unmatched. We know his contagious energy will inspire everyone who participates in the Meaningful Miles Challenge!
Hometown: Powell, Ohio Age: 10 years old Diagnosis: Henoch-Schoenlein Purpura (HSP)
Diagnosis: Bowel Obstruction causing Ovarian Cyst
Sofia is currently ten years old and enjoys music, singing, and socializing with friends and family. We know Sofia’s sweet soul will inspire everyone participating in the Meaningful Miles challenge to do the best they can!
Learn more about Simon and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Simon
Learn more about Sofia and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Sofia
MEET TAYLOR
MEET THOMAS
Taylor was born premature with a bowel obstruction. She was transferred to Nationwide Children’s Hospital where she underwent two neonatal surgeries and spent three months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
When Thomas was born, he suffered from severe gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and failure to thrive. When he turned two, Thomas was hospitalized locally in his hometown of West Virginia. His health was deteriorating, and he was transferred via ambulance to Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Thomas remained inpatient for four months. It was uncovered that not only was he struggling with GI motility issues, he was struggling with significant bladder issues as well. Over the next handful of years, Nationwide Children’s became Thomas’ second home. In 2012, he had the portion of his large intestine removed and slowly began to see improvements. For the first time, Thomas was spending more time at home than inpatient.
After her surgery, Taylor had what her physicians called a “sleepy bowel” which caused her to stay another month inpatient at Nationwide Children’s. Age: 16 years old
Learn more about Savannah and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Savannah
MEET SIMON
When Taylor was 15 years old, she began to show signs of what again would be a bowel obstruction, but this the time it was caused by a very large ovarian cyst. Her physicians scheduled surgery to remove the paratubal cyst and discovered that it weighed 19.2 pounds! The mass was wrapped in her bowels and around her uterus.
Hometown: Carey, Ohio
Savannah has a passion for dogs and aspirations to become an entrepreneur focused on canine care. As you complete your Meaningful Miles Challenge this year, remember Savannah’s story as motivation and encouragement to never give up!
After the cyst had been removed, Taylor’s gastrointestinal pains began to decrease. She started feeling better and began to enjoy life again! Taylor’s determination and power to overcome obstacles will motivate everyone participating in the Meaningful Miles Challenge to keep going! Learn more about Taylor and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Taylor
Hometown: South Charleston, WV Age: 14 years old Diagnosis: Pseudo Obstruction, Severe Food Allergies, Neurogenic Bladder, Osteoporosis Sponsor: Jeff Wyler Auotomotive
Thomas is still restricted in his diet and abilities, but his family makes accommodations to suit him and he is growing and thriving! Thomas and his family will be cheering you on loudly throughout the Meaningful Miles Challenge. Learn more about Thomas and show your support at give.nationwidechildrens.org/goto/Thomas
NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEANINGFUL MILES
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH • OCTOBER 15, 2020
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Thank you to our Meaningful Miles Challenge Children’s Champions! You’ve gone the distance by making every step more meaningful. Without you, our work would not be possible. Brandon Abbott Emily Adams Meredith Adams Rita Adams Courtney Adkins Tara Alioto Heather Anderson Megan Anderson Christine Antonoplos Munish Aryaa Natasha Baer Patricia Baldassarre Alyssa Baltas Ashley Banks Megan Bano Sharon Bare Molly Baumann Justin Beard Kelleigh Beatty Katie Beecroft David Bell Rebecca Belt Jennifer Bickel Sarah Biehl Laurie Bilovesky Tiffany Black Darris Blackford Star Blackford Courtney Blair Tammy Blair Nancy Blake Katelynne Boggs Kayla Bogner Landon Bogner Luke Bogner Jamie Bohm Shoshannah Bourgeois Kimberly Brabb-Wheeler Molly Brewer Matthew Brissette
Meghan Bruder Rachel Brunello Christopher Bruns Lucy Bucher Beth Burkhart Amiee Byers Isaac Canonico Matt Cassidy Amanda Casto Yan Cheng Hannah Chinn Kati Christner Dawn Christopher Nicole Ciancone Erica Ciardelli Shaye Coburn Anthony Contakis Michelle Cooper Erica Cornell Robert Cox Allison Cripe Meriem Dahbi Ashley Daugherty Charles Daugherty Jeannine Davidson Elizabeth Davis James Davis James Davis Jeremy Davis Taylor Davis Luca Delatore Brandon Deloof Ashlyn Denney Juli Dennis Jennifer Deskins Kelly Deville Martina Dickason Stephen Dickman Jennifer Dominach Sara Doucher
Jacquelyn Doxie King Misti Drope Kelly Dutton Madelyn Duvall Robert Edwards Bree Egger Watchili Elliott Danielle Erlenwein Ali Ernest Anna Evans Beth Fagan Charissa Fee Rachel Fielhauer Lisa Firestone Jennifer Fisher Lauren Fisher Chelsey Fletcher Becky Fox Brandon Freytag Stacey Freytag Andrea Garringer Ariel Garsow Elizabeth Gauen Renee Geno Alicia Gilbert Maria Gilbert Vickie Gilbert Catherine Glass Ariel Gleich Roy Gordon Ashley Graham Mackenzie Graham Mariah Green Michelle Greiner Lauren Griffin John Groves Mounika Guntu Dan Hadden Donya Hageman Justin Hamilton
Becca Hanlon Rachael Hardison Kelly Harnett Beth Harper Ginger Harr Ryan Harr Judith Hartman Nadine Haskell Benjamin Hatmacher Caleb Haugen Megan Heilman Trista Helmlinger Liza Hensley Julie Herman Molly Hideg Eileen Hill Jordan Hockett Madison Honchel Christina Hope Rebecca Howard Richard Hoyt
8 OCTOBER 15, 2020 • THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Yungui Huang Elizabeth Huffman Courtney Hughes Melissa Humble John Hykes Heather Hysell Sarah Irvin Clark Irvin Clark Parul Jain Will Janning Peg Jarosinski Kristin Jarvis Anna Jaynes Emma Jerew Cassidi Johnson Whitney Johnson Abigail Jones Meredith Jones Libbie Kaltenbach Francis Kamau
Janeen Kastner Megan Kirk Melody Kitzmiller Sarah Klenke Alexandra Kljun Dustin Koslen Emily Lacy Sharon Landeros Tyler Lane Amanda Lanuka Tori Law Alina Lewandowski Denise Lewis Tyler Lieser Susan Liggins Deborah Lin Meredith Lineberry Stephanie Little Ashley Littrell Swan Bee Liu
Melissa Lloyd Michael Longmire Bobbi Lowe Olivia Lowe Alexandra Lubarsky Shana Lucius John Luna Jamie Luttrell Dannete Lyden Joseph Mack Michele Mack Sarah Majkrzak Prashant Malhotra Dominic Mariano Jenni Martin Lauren Mason Justin Masters Kelsey Matson Jerry McAfee Chanelle McCampbell Julie McCartney Mike McConkey Jonathan McCracken Jamie McEnneny Brandon McFadden Jan McGarry Todd McGill Ryan McIlvaine Bruce Meadows Kathryn Melton Monica Merkel Richard Merkel Courtney Messmer Elizabeth Meta Julie Miller Lori Miller Heather Missler Kathy Monangai Lauren Moncrief Hangsik Moon Madison Moore Mikaylie Morman Chloe Mulford Adrienne Murray
NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEANINGFUL MILES
Jack Murray Holly Muth Paige Nelson Mary Nguyen Brittany O’Brien Nykki O’Bryan Holly Overmiller Chris Parkinson Parth Patel Shannon Perkins Terry Perrigo Carrie Petry Jessica Pfeiffer Jennifer Phillips Julie Pickering-Campbell April Poling Ericka Ponte Corrinne Pugh Melissa Query Sharon Quigley Vanessa Quilliam Amy Quillin Rachel Ragle Ben Randolph Not Real Mandy Reber Tracey Reckner Morgan Reed Samantha Reed Karina Rice Jeremy Riehm Amber Riepenhoff Carrie Robinson Megumi Robinson Becky Roeder Julie Roessner Rebecca Romero Michelle Rond Rainelle Ross Courtney Ruggaber Sophia Ruotolo Cara Russo-Gatta Steve Rust
Kayleigh Rutschilling Kim Sabo Gail Sadler Lisa Salsburey Andrew Sanders Caitlin Sare Sarah Saum Travis Scheadler Shana Schindley Michele Schwerdtfeger Andy Scott Kim Scott Madeleine Scott Thomas Scott Michelle Sculli Samantha Secrist Sarah Seither Emily Seitz Katie Semmelroth Anjali Senthilkumar Kristin Shear Heather Sheidler Ted Shigley Alexandra Smith David Smith Katherine Smith Matthew Smith Rose Smith Lacey Snoke Kayla Snow Erin Snyder Jenna Snyder Michelle Spader Cheryl Stanley Mitchell Staugler Jennifer Steelesmith Briana Stewart Patrick Stewart Alyssa Stine Ava Strahan Adam Susel Ashley Szwed Julie Taylor Cindy Terapak
Chrystina Tharp Jamie Thivener Donna Thompson Dean Thornton Laura Tidball Melissa Tilton Collin Todd Laura Tornes Tracy Townsend Madison Turnwald Teresa Vallance Paige Van Horn Meghan Vesper Jordan Vincent Reid Vocke Ashley Vukovic Laura Waites Emily Waldvogel Alexis Wallace Kim Wallace Austin Warehime Dena Webb Maddison Webb Jennifer Weiner Mandi Weiser Andrew Wene Tiffany West Lara Whitson Claire Williams Courtney Williams Megan Williams Melia Williams Sean Williams Jan Wilson Michelle Worrellia Julia Wyche Sherry Yaple Heather Yardley Julie Yeater Elena Yemma Xu Zhang Joseph Zinner *List as of 9/24/2020
NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEANINGFUL MILES
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH • OCTOBER 15, 2020
TM
Building a better tomorrow
Because some races never end... The Superior Group is proud to support Nationwide Children’s Hospital again this year and thanks everyone for making The Meaningful Miles Challenge a reality. www.superiorgroup.net
Greif is committed to building a better tomorrow by giving back to our communities today. We are honored to partner with Nationwide Children’s Hospital to support their Meaningful Miles Challenge.
425 Winter Road • Delaware, Ohio 43015 • www.greif.com
JeffWylerColumbusAutoMall.com
Sales, Service, Body Shop Buy online 24/7 with Wyler Direct At-home vehicle delivery Gender Rd., Canal Winchester
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10 OCTOBER 15, 2020 • THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEANINGFUL MILES
Thank you to our 2020 Nationwide Children’s Hospital
Wellness Event Sponsors!
Alliance Date
Jeff Wyler Automotive
Progressive Leasing
Big Lots Foundation
KEMBA Financial Credit Union
Quality Window Systems
Capital Recovery Systems, Inc. Columbus Compressor and Machine Services Crimson Cup Fulks Family Dental Greif Hexion idegy
Lawhon & Associates, Inc. Lbrands Foundation LEADERPROMOS Nationwide Insurance Nothing Bundt Cakes NYSSIU, New York State Chapter of Special Investigations Units
RISE Fitness Community The Columbus Dispatch The Superior Group Vaughn Industries Warrantech, An Amynta Company Wesney Construction Xtreme Limo
NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEANINGFUL MILES
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH • OCTOBER 15, 2020
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12 OCTOBER 15, 2020 • THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEANINGFUL MILES
Thank you to our 2020 Meaningful Miles Challenge Sponsors! THIS YEAR, YOUR COMMITMENT AND SUPPORT MATTERS MORE THAN EVER. THANK YOU FOR GIVING KIDS HOPE.
KEMBA
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