Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Sim's Story

Sim
Age 9
Children's Medical Center
Brain Tumor

Sim is no ordinary elementary schooler. Although diagnosed with a grade II astrocytoma brain tumor at age 6, Sim maintains an active schedule including soccer, school and trips to museums.

Sim is naturally outgoing and is especially known for his ability to inspire others. Articulate beyond his young years, Sim recorded and posted cheerful and engaging YouTube updates following his two brain surgeries performed at Dallas Children’s Hospital.

Since his surgeries, Sim manages diminished vision in one eye by covering the stronger eye for several hours a day, allowing the weaker one to catch up. But even that doesn’t get in the way of Sim enjoying the things he loves most, such as playing with his two brothers. His mom says he is a perceptive and natural helper.

Sim is a gracious young man with delightful manners. “A lot has happened in my life in two years, some things scary and some things fun,” he says. “But what really sticks with me is the love from all around—that’s kept me happy and hopeful.”

Children's Miracle Network Hospitals Champions

Champions is a Children's Miracle Network Hospitals program that brings attention to the important work being done at its 170 children’s hospitals. It does this by honoring 54 remarkable kids who have faced severe medical challenges, and helping them tell their stories.

The Champions program designates a child in every state who has bravely battled a serious injury or illness. The Champions represent the 17 million children treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals every year. The 2012 Champions have dealt with a wide variety of injuries and illnesses including genetic diseases, organ transplants and traumas, as well as various types of cancer.

The Champions travel for a week in September, first to Washington, D.C., where they traditionally meet with their state representatives on Capitol Hill and visit the White House. They then take a private chartered flight, provided by Delta Air Lines, to Orlando, Fla. While there, Champions meet Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals corporate partners, hospital representatives and media partners. These groups convene to celebrate a year of medical miracles during the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Celebration event at Walt Disney World Resort.