Today nine-year old identical twin sisters Kendra and Kinsey Fader from Halifax were named the IWK’s representatives for the 2017 Children’s Miracle Network Champions, presented by Walmart Canada. The girls were surprised by the honour when it was announced at their birthday party at Cineplex Scotiabank Theatre Halifax.
Throughout 2017, Kendra and Kinsey will represent children and youth who rely on the IWK for care by sharing their story at events throughout the Maritime region and North America. Children’s Miracle Network Champions, presented by Walmart Canada, is a special program that brings together children representing 12 children’s hospital foundations across Canada to celebrate pediatric health and wellness.
“Kendra and Kinsey have been advocates for the IWK throughout the course of their lives,” says Elizabeth LeClair, Manager of Annual Giving with the IWK Foundation and Children’s Miracle Network Program Director. “To have them represent Maritime patients as Children’s Miracle Network Champions is truly amazing.”
Kendra and Kinsey had to overcome incredible odds to survive. Since their premature birth nine years ago, the IWK has been their home away from home. Kendra suffers from multiple gastrointestinal complications that are unusually severe. She has had 20 surgeries to help with her reflux and absorption of food and will need more. Kinsey has a mild form of autism and continues to struggle with seizures, tics, and fine-muscle control. Both girls have spent a great deal of time at the IWK, but they have never let that dampen their bright spirits or infectious laughs.
“The IWK has been our home away from home,” said the twins’ mom Laura Fader. “They are extremely excited to be selected for this very special honour representing the IWK and their fellow patients.”
During Kendra and Kinsey’s role as Champions, they will travel to Toronto and Orlando with their parents and meet other families who know first-hand the importance of having access to critical and specialized pediatric care.
Walmart Canada has been a Children’s Miracle Network partner since 1994. Through this 22-year partnership, donations from Walmart Canada, its associates, customers and suppliers have raised more than $100 million in support of children’s hospitals across Canada. Funds raised by Walmart Canada support 12 children’s hospital foundations across Canada that work to provide medical care, life-saving research and prevention education that directly impact the quality and level of care received by the children being treated at these local children’s hospitals every day.
Source: Media Release
