Campus Life

Children's Hospital patient named as Pennsylvania CMN champion

On Thursday, May 12, at the Fruitville Pike Walmart, 5-year-old Miracle Child Aiden Stowe, a grateful patient treated at Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital, was introduced as the Pennsylvania Champion in the Champions Program by Children’s Miracle Network director Marie Conley, Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital Chief Administrative Officer Matt Wain, and Walmart Market Manager Dave Fitzgerald. At the conclusion of the announcement, Dave Fitzgerald surprised Aiden and his family with a $500 gift card to help them prepare for their trip. Fitzgerald told Aiden, “You are a miracle and an inspiration."

Aiden’s life changed in an instant around 1 p.m. on November 3, 2008. At the age of three, Aiden’s skull was fractured after he was forcefully thrown from his father’s truck. While in the hospital, he suffered a right middle cerebral artery stroke cause by his damaged carotid artery. During his 43-day stay at Children’s Hospital, Aiden received inpatient rehabilitation. He was discharged on December 13, 2008 with limited mobility on his left side and in his left hand. Aiden’s spirit stayed positive, even on his worst days. His warm heart and signature “thumbs up” brought smiles to everyone around him. His mom Angeline shared, “It is because of Children's Miracle Network and the staff at Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital that we are here today.” Aiden is now a typical boy who loves trucks, tractors, construction equipment and playing in the dirt with his sister.

Every year, the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Champions program identifies a child with a remarkable medical story from each state. These Champions serve as ambassadors for the 17 million children treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals annually. The Champions and their families will travel to Washington, D.C., and Orlando, Fla. in October to highlight the vital work of children’s hospitals.

Miracle Child Aiden Stowe shares a smile with his mother Angeline, father John, and little sister Hailey after they were given a surprise $500 gift card from Walmart for their travels to Washington, D.C., and Orlando, Fla. Credit: Penn StateCreative Commons

Last Updated May 18, 2011

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