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2003 Hero Kids
The courage, light and resilience of children facing serious illness is a marvel to behold. In many ways they are the greatest teachers of all, reminding us to live in the moment and showing us what things in life really matter.
Portraits of the incredible 2003 Hero Kids were unveiled September 13, 2003 at the annual Celebration of Courage Family Festival, held at the World Trade Center in Portland, Oregon.
Here are our 2003 Hero Kids:
Christy Antonsen
A talented young artist, Christy loves coloring and painting. The energetic 8 year old also loves playing with Barbies and Polly Pockets with her little sisters. She enjoys school and her positive, 'happy-go-lucky' spirit makes her very popular with other kids.
Christy was born with Maroteaux-Lamy Syndrome, resulting in dwarfism. She requires regular enzyme treatments and back and joint pain are part of her daily experience. She faces weekly hospitalizations and must travel to California for experimental treatments. Christy's family remains hopeful, saying that there are some promising therapies on the horizon that could bring a brighter future.
Her family finds it rewarding to see Christy become stronger and more courageous as she matures. They lovingly support Christy's progress along the way. Even little sister, Lindsay helps Christy with daily tasks like putting her shoes on. Christy demonstrates the attitude of a true hero in her simple advice to others, "If you can't do something, keep on trying."
Becca Arnold
Pop music star Aaron Carter is a favorite subject for 15 year old Becca. She loves to sing along with his CD's over and over. She also loves to dance, paint, swim and watch Nickelodeon on TV….and of course, eat pizza, saying, "I'd eat it every day if I could!"
In March of 2002, Becca was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). The treatment for this form of cancer required her to endure up to eight pokes a day and round after round of chemotherapy. Being away from middle school is particularly tough for Becca as she misses seeing her classmates and friends.
Despite the challenges of treatment, she continually looks forward to greeting all the staff warmly on her regular arrival at the clinic. Becca serves as an inspiration to her family. Her mother says, “Becca starts every day with enthusiasm. Her heart and courage are not limited and she lives with hope.”
Becky Bletscher
Before she was ill, fourteen year old Becky loved to hang out and shop with her friends and play with "Koufax," her kitty. Musical talent came easily to her; she sang, and played the piano and flute. Her family often cheered her on at softball and volleyball games. What used to come easily for Becky, however, now requires tremendous courage, focus, and patience.
In June of 2002, Becky was diagnosed with Arterial Venus Malformation, a congenital disease that left her with a malformed blood vessel in her brain. Very suddenly, after a clot ruptured this vessel, she suffered a severe stroke. With hours of rehabilitation behind her and many more ahead, she is re-learning the basics…reading, writing, talking, tying her shoes and playing sports.
Despite the challenges she faces, Becky's mom, Sue shares, "Becky's positive attitude and willingness to work hard have amazed us!" She believes Becky's words would be "Have a good attitude and keep doing the hard things. Who you are is the most important thing."
Xela Bryce
Because Xela’s smile fills the room when family and friends enter, it is no wonder that she's been nicknamed "Happy" by those who love her. “She's happy everyday regardless of any obstacles in her way,” says Adrian, her dad.
On October 18, 2000, the first conjoined twins in Portland, Oregon history were born. Xela and her twin sister Alaina were delivered physically conjoined, sharing a liver and weighing a combined 12 pounds, 5 ounces. Since their physical separation, although her sister recovered fully, Xela has undergone multiple surgeries to repair her heart, endured a tracheotomy and a feeding tube. Still, this tiny little girl is an example of happiness.
“Xela binds our family together. We call her “Happy” because no matter her condition: past or present - her tender smile shines her love and gives those gentle good feelings of what being happy is all about.”
Princeton Caldwell
Princeton often asked for seconds when it came to his favorites, chicken noodle soup or ramen noodles. His dimpled smile went from ear to ear as he played Super Mario Brothers, talked about dolphins or cheered for his "grandmother’s number one basketball team," the Lakers.
After every medical procedure, three year old Princeton would say “Mom, that was quick and easy, huh?” These were brave words from a little boy who was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, a rare type of cancer, in October of 2002. In eight months, Princeton underwent seven rounds of chemotherapy, surgery to remove his tumor, as well as a stem cell transplant. Through all of this, nothing could stifle his playfulness or his spirit!
Princeton drew people in immediately with his big toothy smile and a giggle. He loved being with people, whether it was his mom and dad or the "family" he created at the hospital. Princeton’s zest for life has deeply impacted all those who knew and loved him.
Chris Campagna
Loads of spaghetti and computer games are on Chris' list of "Top Five Favorites." This gentle and kind 16 year old has learned to take nothing for granted...no matter how he is feeling.
Chris was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre' Syndrome, an inflammatory disorder of the nerves located outside the brain and spinal cord. He was rendered unable to walk or eat and tolerates a great deal of pain on a daily basis. Despite all this, he still finds it important to help others.
During his nine week stay in the hospital, Chris always made it a point to get to know other kids who just “needed company.” He once befriended a baby girl who often cried at night, driving his wheelchair to her bedside so that she would not be alone.
Despite the ongoing pain and challenges of his illness, Chris never loses courage and compassion when it comes to others. His advice is simply to remember to “have patience.”
Christopher Cha
Like other kids his age, Christopher, 12, enjoys skateboarding, biking, and candy. Nicknamed "Cha Cha," this kid loves listening to music and knows all the coolest tunes.
Chris was diagnosed with a blood disorder called Thalassemia and has endured blood transfusions, hair loss, chemotherapy and extended hospitalizations. Despite painful and frightening treatments, Chris consistently maintains a positive and hopeful attitude.
Though only on the brink of becoming a teenager, Chris' personal motto shows wisdom well beyond his years. He claims, "There is nothing I cannot do." His parents are amazed at how he learned to accept and endure what has occurred during his childhood and adolescence. Chris’ definition of a hero is “a person that does something to help others.” His attitude does just that.
Jewel Ford
Jewel, 17, is an avid dancer and member of the Grant High School Dance Team, as well as a member of the A Capella Choir. She loves her grandma’s spaghetti and playing with her two cats, "Abby" and "Oscar." She's known to have a great sense of humor, and rarely has trouble getting motivated.
Jewel was first diagnosed with Sickle Cell Anemia at the age of 2. Although there is no cure, she will face life-long treatment for this blood disease. For Jewel, these treatments have included countless pokes for IV's, blood transfusions and lengthy hospital stays.
Jewel hopes to use her experience to inform and educate others about her disease. Her first piece of advice to those who are facing this illness is, “Find joy in your challenges…you can go the distance in life.” Her family and friends are motivated by Jewel's strength, courage and determination. They remain confident that whatever goals she sets for herself, Jewel will succeed!
Adam Gamble
Adam, 16, loves computer games and pizza. He looks forward to meeting new people and experiencing new opportunities. One of his favorite sayings is, "Smile and everyone smiles with you."
On September 11, 2001, Adam's life was dramatically changed after being struck by a car and sustaining a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Basic life skills had to be re-learned and he had to depend on others around him for help. Through countless hours of rigorous physical therapy, terrific courage and unbelievable willpower, Adam is adapting to a new lifestyle and treasures the new people that have entered his life.
Recently, Adam returned to the ski slopes, donning a pair of skis and protective helmet. Adam is clearly qualified to define a hero as “The kind of person who triumphs over impossible odds.”
BreAnn Gucene
At the top of BreAnn's list of favorite things to do were arts & crafts, playing with her dog, "Yorky," and her cats, "Killer" & "Waddles." Spending time with family was a runner up.
In June of 2002, BreAnn was diagnosed with Wilms' Tumor, a pediatric cancer of the kidneys. Even after 9 surgeries, 18 radiation sessions and 9 months of intensive chemotherapy treatments, she continued to focus on the needs others.
She became fast friends with the other kids in the hospital and loved making them laugh. "Regardless of how she felt, she was always worrying about others' feelings and making sure they were 'OK'," says her mom, Jeanine.
"From the beginning, we all knew that BreAnn was something special. She showed intelligence and intuitiveness at a very early age…a love of life that was so strong, it overwhelmed everyone she came into contact with.
Arielle Horton
Twenty year old Arielle Horton has a deeply rooted faith and an unquenchable spirit. She loves to dig her hands in the dirt, take walks and feel the breeze sweep over her face. She listens closely.
Arielle battles a cancer called Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma, a type of brain cancer. Living with short term memory loss and vision damage, she has endured multiple surgeries and extended stays on the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.
Arielle has developed a deep sense of acceptance. Her comfortable, warm and inviting presence has a way of lifting the spirits of those around her. She shares that this experience “has solidified my faith and I’ve met some incredible doctors and nurses.” Arielle sees a hero as someone who primarily helps others. She is known for her ability to inspire others to recognize and embrace their own faith.
Hailey Johnson
Hailey is a real-life superhero, powered by her favorite foods, tortellini, french fries and garlic bread. She is also a ballet dancer extraordinaire, a gymnast-in-the-making and a best friend to "Bleu," her dog.
Hailey faces not one, but two life threatening illnesses. In April of 2001, she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), a form of blood cancer. Then, in September of 2002, it was determined that Hailey also suffered from Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a disease that affects the lungs. Little Hailey has become very familiar with medical treatments and hospitalization. She faces endless pokes, chemotherapy and chronic pain in the treatment of ALL and the ongoing physical chest therapy and medications required to treat CF.
Her mom, Marisa says that Hailey's bravery is astonishing. "You would never know by looking at Hailey or watching her play that she has these illnesses." When asked what she would tell other kids who were sick, Hailey shares the words of a hero. “I would tell them that I would be their friend. I would not laugh at them or make fun of them. I would tell them that I love them”.
Anastasia Keen
No one ever left Ana’s hospital room without a sticker. She especially loved sharing the ones with rainbow hearts and flowers. Two year old "Ana-banana" always had a smile or an “I love you” in sign language. Ana also loved to play music and listen to Dr. Seuss books read by her father Jim.
Before she could crawl, Ana was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), a form of blood cancer. Despite the endless pokes, rounds of chemotherapy and ongoing pain, Ana found a way to smile and sing along to 'Old MacDonald,' chiming in with a 'moo-moo' here and an 'oink-oink' there. She learned to make the best of the struggles she faced in her isolated hospital room.
Hospital staff looked forward to Ana's magical wagon trips around the unit floor, waving like a queen and blowing kisses, greeting all those she passed. Her sister, Amanda thinks that "heroes have lots of courage and Ana is one of them." Her strong and loving spirit continues to inspire others everyday.
Melissa Lane
The sounds of sweet music can be heard throughout the Lane household when 14 year old musician extraordinaire, Melissa picks up her flute, piccolo or saxophone. She plays songs of hope and inspiration.
Melissa suffers from an unknown condition that effects several bodily systems and has an uncertain diagnosis. She endures ever-changing medication and testing, and is required to travel across the country with her parents, in search of new diagnostic information.
Melissa’s zest for life is none-the-less apparent. Even after missing the entire 7th grade due to her illness, Melissa received two achievement awards the very next year, including the Presidents Education Award for Outstanding Achievement. She is realistic and joyful about life as she courageously faces her future. She lives her definition of a hero as "someone who puts up with the worst parts of life and still has a good attitude."
Rudy Lavadores
"Rudy Toot," as he's known throughout the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, is the resident 'sweetheart.' The big, beautiful eyes of 9-month old Rudy Lavadores seem to absorb the world around him and shine with joy and love to those who care for him. His nurse, Carol, took special care to dress little Rudy in his adorable outfits and hats and was rewarded with his tiny, precious grin.
Born in January 2003, three weeks premature, Rudy has faced multiple pokes, feeding tubes, ventilators and constant medical monitoring in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
The language of love is spoken fluently when Rudy's mother, Pilar, walks into his view…his smile speaks of a profound connection. The amount of love created around this tiny child can hardly be contained. Rudy demonstrates that hope and courage are evident at any age.
Daniel Liu
Daniel is a spunky, vibrant 5 year old who is aptly nicknamed, "Prince Daniel" and "Mr. Independent." He loves to camp, swim and fish in the great outdoors and he excels in reading, math and eating Chinese food.
In October of 1998, Daniel was diagnosed with a rare form of nerve cancer called Neuroblastoma. He faced the challenges of numerous surgeries, high-dose chemotherapy and radiation treatments, blood transfusions, and a bone marrow transplant. Daniel mostly remembers the misery of "the pokes….big time!"
Daniel's parents, John & Jie Qing have witnessed the emotional struggle that Daniel has endured, but also recognize the progress that he has made in terms of coping. Daniel says, "A hero is someone who can be strong." His parents know that Daniel fits that definition perfectly.
Courtney Lowry
Courtney is an energetic five year old who loves peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, singing, Barbies and her kitty, "Butter." She's bright, cheerful and self-assuredly responds to others when they look at her physical condition with curiosity and fear. "Everyone comes in different shapes and sizes" is Courtney’s motto.
Courtney was born with Proteus Syndrome, a rare congenital disease, creating cysts that cover her body. She also has ongoing bone overgrowth. Courtney has bravely endured over 22 surgeries and is now unable to walk due to a tumor in her spine.
Though chronic pain has filled her 5 short years of life, Courtney keeps smiling. "The most remarkable thing about Courtney is her spirit and courage," says Courtney’s mom, Sheila. “The small stuff we complain about each day does not mean much compared to what she goes through.” When Courtney looks in the mirror, her condition fades away and she sees the face of a hero.
Tyson Mageo
Tyson is a wonderfully creative young man who takes pride in his drawing and story writing. He loves playing his favorite video games and eating Chinese food. Tyson can often be found dribbling down the basketball court, displaying a satisfied grin as the ball swishes silently through the net.
After experiencing a relapse of his Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) in March of 2001, 9 year old Tyson had to undergo an astounding 60 weeks of chemotherapy treatments. Through it all, he has retained an uplifting, positive disposition, facing his challenges with unparalleled grit and grace. Tyson shares insight beyond his years, saying, “Don’t whine, don’t fuss…relax and you’ll get it over with.”
Tyson’s parents learn every day through Tyson’s example. “We are sure that many moms and dads are awed and amazed at the composure their children have, but Tyson is truly incredible. We are very proud to be his parents.”
Javad Mashinchi
One and a half year old Javad is known as "Boopi," which means owl in Turkish. He loves his dog "Mooka," playing with small cars, and seeing how things work. He's often found watching his favorite shows, The Wiggles and Veggie Tales.
Javad was diagnosed with a rare condition called Congenital Myasthenia Gravis, a rare nerve and muscle syndrome. He spent the first eight months of his life in the hospital, battling numerous bouts of pneumonia. This rare syndrome affects each child differently and Javad and his parents must face the unknown each day.
Javad’s spirit and perseverance draws others in and touches their hearts. Out of this experience, the family has grown stronger. “We have been able to help others in difficult situations and touch lives that would have not been impacted otherwise. Our family has grown closer and our other children have grown more tolerant of those who are not “perfect”.
Duy, Thai & Vinh Pham
Triplets, Duy, Thai, and Vihn playfully keep their parents on the run, playing peek-a-boo, chasing each other, and dancing to music. They also love their naptime and going for long walks with mom and dad.
Born at 30 weeks, each tiny infant weighed between 2 ½ and 3 ½ pounds. They faced multiple challenges common to "premies," including breathing difficulties, feeding and sleep problems. When mom and dad had to return home after the delivery without the triplets, they struggled one day at a time to overcome their feelings of helplessness and anxiety. They remained constantly vigilant, as their three precious little sons slowly overcome each obstacle.
As time has passed and the infants have grown healthier, the fragile beginnings of the triplets seem far in the past, especially with the news of a baby sister on the way. “They are now happy and healthy boys,” says their mother, Thao. “Looking back at how fragile they were, we sometimes can’t believe how well they are doing now.”
Sarah Robinson
Fourteen year old Sarah has lots of favorites: burritos, singing, writing songs, swimming, shopping and 'hanging' with friends. Called "Sissy" by those who are fortunate enough to be close to her, Sarah is a lover of dogs, horses and even, giraffes.
Recently diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), Sarah has become all-too-familiar with the hospital setting, chemotherapy treatments, painful procedures and nauseating medication.
She recognizes that "cancer has redefined what's important in life…family and friends." Sarah's faith, strength and courage have been an inspiration to those close to her. Her mother, Linda shares, "I am drawn to her peace, love and faith…it was she who carried us through the first week." Sarah's idea of a hero describes her perfectly. She says, "A hero is someone inspirational, wise, and strong and who is a survivor."
Krystal Salsky
At 17, Krystal is an avid dancer, training for hours to perform with the Rex Putnam High School Dance Team. Like many kids her age, she dreams about what the future has in store for her.
In March of 2001, Krystal decided that nursing was to be her calling and only two days later, she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a form of soft tissue cancer. Krystal has bravely faced countless rounds of chemotherapy, blood transfusions, scans, and a stem cell transplant. She expects to have a bone marrow transplant in the near future.
Through it all, she has had an astonishing ability to find valuable lessons. Her mom confirms that each time Krystal would have a set back, her response was, "God just wants me to be a better nurse. Now I will be able to understand what a patient is going through.”
Krystal has much wisdom to share on just what it means to be a hero. “To me, a hero is someone that you can look up to, someone who will stay by your side. A hero does things for the right reason, not just because it benefits them…someone who tries their best and doesn’t give up.”
Henry Schecter
Three year old Henry loves anything with wheels, especially fire trucks and backhoes. He enjoys singing along to James Brown and Johnny Cash and he loves chocolate! When he watches the movie Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, he jumps out of his chair to dance in time with the song, “Ol’ Bamboo.”
Henry refuses to let his diagnosis of Hemophilia, a blood clotting disorder, get in his way. Having this disease has meant that Henry has several blood infusions each week due to muscle and joint bleeds. He and his parents must endure the stares of others when his little body is covered with huge bruises, a side effect of his condition. His parents have also had to learn when to intervene in Henry's play to prevent injury, and when to let him just be a "normal, active 3 year old boy."
Through it all, he manages to find the humor in just about everything. “He's a silly, funny, loving little guy” says his mother, Leslie. His mom has been truly inspired by Henry and shares, "Through my child's eyes, I have seen the magic, love and humor that are always there in everything…. Henry is braver than we are."
Brittany Stinson
Brittany, 10, loves pizza and collecting Beanie Babies. A true animal lover, she adores turtles, dolphins, puppies, and guinea pigs. She has a tremendous flair for drawing, especially in magic marker and colored pencil.
When Brittany was just a year old, she was diagnosed with Wilms' Tumor, a form of kidney cancer. She underwent surgery to remove the diseased kidney, yet after 2 years of chemotherapy, radiation treatments and extended hospital stays. Her remaining kidney was severely damaged, requiring ongoing dialysis and further treatment.
Brittany’s mother, Julie is amazed at her daughter’s strength and ability to carry on through the challenges. She shares that Brittany is truly an ongoing inspiration to her family and those around her, "She's a strong and beautiful girl who continues to overcome the obstacles in her life."
Kirstin Wobig
A joyful noise was recently heard coming up the road. It was the sound of music combined with the giggling and laughter of children in a parade. Leading the procession was Kirstin Wobig, marching proudly as Grand Marshall of the 2002 Clackamas County Kiddie Caper Parade.
At age 4, Kirstin has spent half of her life facing the intense challenges of Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. Kirstin knows the pain and fear involved in chemotherapy, radiation, surgery and a lot of time away from home to receive these treatments.
During her continued hospital stays, playful Kirstin has been known to paint the fingernails of the nurses and doctors who attend her bedside. Through it all though, she maintains a truly childlike zest for life, reminding those around her just what it means to live in the moment. “She was a strong girl to start with, but she's even stronger now… it is amazing to me,” says Kirstin’s mom, Allison. Everyone knows Kristin for her gift of warming hearts and bringing smiles wherever she goes.
