February 24, 2022

2022 Saskatchewan Champion Child with Genetic Tissue Disorder Announced

Carson Garneau can’t wait to be this year’s Champion Child representing Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation. At just 13 years old he is going to serve as the face for the sick and injured children of Saskatchewan, bringing awareness to his condition, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome.

“I’m excited to be the champion child, I’m glad they thought of me, I’m glad they chose me, it’s amazing I get to help raise money for Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation and it puts a smile on my face,” said Carson.

As a baby, Carson’s mom noticed his skin was exceptionally soft and would tear very easily, he could get a cut simply by running his finger over the seam of an inflatable toy. At 23 months old a dermatologist diagnosed Carson with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS). EDS is a genetic tissue disorder that causes extreme fragility in the skin’s collagen. This can also cause small bruises to turn into bursitis where the bruise falls off and leaves an open wound for up to six months.

Carson’s day-to-day life looks different from other kids his age. He’s never ridden a bike, he can’t play contact sports or participate in repetitive heavy lifting activities. While there is no cure for Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, Carson and his family have recently begun meeting with a pain management team from Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital virtually.

Carson is ready to take on the important role of the 2022 Saskatchewan ambassador for the Children’s Miracle Network Champions Program. These ambassadors proudly represent all children treated daily at their local children’s hospital. As part of his role, Carson will travel across Saskatchewan to share his story, bringing inspiration and highlighting the need for innovative research of children’s diseases.

Carson is inspiring, he makes the most out of every day and never lets his condition hold him back. He is always cheerful and loves putting a smile on others’ faces

“Carson is inspiring, he makes the most out of every day and never lets his condition hold him back. He is always cheerful and loves putting a smile on others’ faces,” said Tanner Braaten, Community Engagement Director at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation. “He is the true definition of a champion and takes great pride in his role to represent kids like him, who rely on the delivery of specialized care at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital.”

Our 2020/2021 Champion Child Torrie from Balcarras will be passing the torch to Carson. Torrie was diagnosed with a rare blood disease at nine years old, called Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) Autoimmune Blood Disease. We are so grateful for her amazing commitment and enthusiasm over the past two years.