January 26, 2016

Fifteenth Surgery for Champion Child Cohyn Wells

It’s a distinction that no parent or child ever hopes for, but nine-year-old Cohyn Wells is preparing for his fifteenth surgery this week.

The Moose Jaw boy was born with spina bifida, hydrocephalus, and Chiari II malformation, which is a structural defect in the part of the brain that controls balance. Cohyn has also since developed syringomyelia, a rare, progressive disease that affects his spinal cord.

“I’m super proud of him because he’s really tough”, says Cohyn’s mom Kristyn, who first found out that Cohyn would have medical challenges when she was nineteen weeks pregnant. “He’s been through so much and he’s still so positive through it all.”

Each of Cohyn’s surgeries has been accompanied by lengthy hospital stays and recovery periods. His first surgery took place when he was less than a day old.

In September, Cohyn was selected as the Saskatchewan representative for the Children’s Miracle Network’s Champion Program presented by Walmart. As 2015/16 Champion, Cohyn acts as the ambassador for the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Saskatchewan at events across North America.

“He’s just all about wanting to make things better for other kids,” says Kristyn. “He really wants a new children’s hospital and he wants people to know that this is important.”

While in hospital Cohyn has had plenty of time to think about what’s on his wish list for the new children’s hospital. He’s looking forward to the outdoor play area, the 100% private rooms, and is hoping for lights that change colors in the rooms.

Later this month, Cohyn and his family will travel to Toronto and Orlando to meet with other Champions across Canada and the U.S, thanks to Walmart Canada and Air Canada Foundation. In the meantime while Cohyn recovers in hospital this week, his two older brothers are helping out with some of his special Champion appearances.

 

Listen for Cohyn’s story at this year’s Children’s Hospital Radiothon in Saskatoon from February 3-5 on CJWW, 92.9 The Bull, and 98COOL FM.  You can also watch Cohyn’s story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7B7u5zweXc