September 4, 2012

New Champion Child Introduced to Represent Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation

The Children’s Hospital Foundation of Saskatchewan introduced the new Champion Child who will serve as an international ambassador for the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Saskatchewan and all sick and injured children of this province

The Children’s Hospital Foundation of Saskatchewan, along with associates from Walmart stores across the region, joined together at Stonegate Walmart in Saskatoon today for a special introduction to this year’s Champion Child, Emmanuelle (Elly) Bains who will serve as an international ambassador for the Champions presented by Walmart program.

Elly is a vibrant teenager who is full of energy, passion and drive. Now 13, you would never know she was diagnosed with an extremely rare condition at birth that has caused her severe health problems. “Elly looked like a perfectly healthy newborn,” says her mom Lisa, remembering Elly’s birth. However, her parents’ joy shifted dramatically when doctors and nurses performed standard tests and informed them, “there is something wrong with your baby.” After an emergency surgery and a battery of tests and procedures, Elly was diagnosed with V.A.T.E.R Syndrome which is characterized by a sporadic association of specific birth defects and abnormalities. Elly has had 11 surgeries to correct the affects. Each surgery has required a unique team of specialized doctors and surgeons who continue to monitor Elly’s progress and development.

Every year, the Children’s Miracle Network identifies a child with a remarkable medical story from each province. These children serve as ambassadors for their hospitals by sharing their incredible stories of courage and determination. In September, Elly and her family will attend Children’s Miracle Network festivities in Ottawa along with the other Canadian Champions. The family will then travel to Disney World in Orlando with the Children’s Miracle Network Champions from across North America.

Champions presented by Walmart is designed to increase awareness of Children’s Miracle Network member hospitals, drive participation in the annual campaign, and celebrate the specialized healthcare and research that fundraising supports.

About Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation:
Children’s Hospital Foundation of Saskatchewan, proud affiliate of Children’s Miracle Network, is a provincial charity dedicated to raising funds for the enhancement of children’s healthcare and the Children’s Hospital of Saskatchewan.