What’s New FLORIDA-BOUND! OUR NEW CHAMPION PUTS US ON THE MAP Blake Wheeler had the trip of a lifetime this spring, as he represented Saskatchewan at #ChildrensHospitalsWeek in Orlando. Blake, the 2019 Saskatchewan ambassador for the Children’s Miracle Network Champions Program, said his favorite part of the event was getting to know the other 22 Champion kids from across North America. “Meeting the other Champions was awesome. It was nice to be around kids who have also been through tough medical journeys,” Blake said. Blake was awarded his Champion Medal and a character award with the word “Compassionate”. The 12-year-old also took part in the exciting Facebook Liveathon broadcasted from Walt Disney World to help raise funds for children’s hospitals. The third annual #ChildrensHospitalsWeek took place from March 18 to 24. The week-long initiative is in collaboration with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, celebrating the importance of dedicated children’s hospitals and making sure kids get the best care possible when they need it most. Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation has been the sole Saskatchewan member of Children’s Miracle Network since 1993. Johnny Spezanno, WBDR Radio Program Director & Morning Host with Blake Wheeler
GREY CUP CHAMP TAKES ON NEW ROLE After years of serving as Capital Campaign ambassadors for Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation, Grey Cup Champion Mike McCullough and his wife Laura have stepped into a new role as Team Captains for the Sunshine Maker monthly giving program. “Giving an automatic monthly donation is easy and meaningful to me and my family. Monthly gifts add up to make a big difference for kids’ health care each and every day,” said McCullough, who became a monthly donor in 2007. The cause deeply resonates with the Regina family after they spent two years travelling to children’s 4 PATTISONCHILDRENS.CA SUMMER/FALL 2019
hospitals across North America with their son Cole, who was diagnosed with a seizure disorder and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Tragically, Cole passed away in his sleep after suffering a seizure in 2009. The family of six now advocates on Cole’s behalf for the best possible pediatric care in Saskatchewan in hopes of keeping other families closer to home when their child is sick. Mike McCullough
