News

Apply Online Today for 2010 Camp Riley Summer Sessions

2010-02-26T17:12:47+00:00

Apply Online Today for 2010 Camp Riley Summer Sessions
Camp Riley offers summer of opportunities for children with physical disabilities

INDIANAPOLIS (February 22, 2010) - Camp Riley for Youth with Physical Disabilities has provided new experiences, new friends and new achievements to kids for 55 years. Applicants interested in attending Camp Riley in 2010 should visit RileyKids.org/Camp to complete an online application and secure a spot in your camper’s favorite session.

Camp Riley takes place at Bradford Woods, Indiana University’s outdoor recreation center located 20 miles southwest of Indianapolis. Camp Riley gives youth with physical disabilities the opportunity to experience traditional camping activities in a setting tailored to their individual needs. Campers are empowered to develop independent living skills so they may return home with new confidence.

The online application is a secure, password-protected system allowing families to quickly complete and update camper information as well as reduce the processing time for submissions. Those who do not have access to the internet may contact Becky Phillips, assistant manager of Camp Riley, at 877-867-4539 or e-mail CampRiley@RileyKids.org.

April 15 is the application deadline for 2010 Camp Riley sessions. Applications received after April 15 will be accepted only if space is available for the appropriate camp session. New families can apply to attend Newcomer’s Day on Saturday, May 22 to learn more about Camp Riley.

In 2009, nearly 225 children attended six different Camp Riley sessions during a five-week span. Each Camp Riley session focuses on a different theme, but all include traditional camping activities such as horseback riding, arts and crafts, canoeing, swimming and outdoor games. One-week sessions begin June 13, July 11 and July 18 for campers ages 8 to 18. Two-week sessions start June 20.

Riley Children’s Foundation supports Camp Riley through donations from individuals, businesses, organizations and foundations. Individuals interested in helping provide the Camp Riley experience to Indiana children with the gift of a campership should call 317-634-4474. In-kind contributions, such as blankets, fans, portable CD players, flashlights, arts and crafts supplies and sleeping bags are also welcome.

2010 Camp Riley Sessions
Riley 1
June 13 - 18, 2010; Ages 8 - 18
Cartoon Network
From Tom and Jerry to Scooby-Doo, a world of fun and entertainment is waiting for you at Camp Riley. This one-week session will be packed full of characters, games and activities like swimming, horseback riding (special release form required), arts and campouts that will leave you wanting more. You will also enjoy working with your cabin group to accomplish goals. This session is for campers who benefit from a 1-to-1 staff-to-camper ratio. Be prepared for an exhilarating adventure like none other.

Riley 3
June 20 - July 2, 2010; Ages 8 - 18
Fear Factor
This summer test your taste buds, challenge your fears, and come away victorious in the series premier of Fear Factor: Camp Riley. Campers will participate in traditional camp activities like swimming, archery, horseback riding (special release form required), arts and waterfront fun while focusing on cooperating with others, working together and making friends. Cabin groups and individuals will also test their courage in daily challenges. Visits from our friends at the Indiana Four Wheel Drive Association and the Adaptive Sports Program at the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana (basketball, tennis and soccer) will fill the days with excitement. This two-week session is specifically designed for campers who are ready for a longer camp experience and thrive in a 1-to-3 staff-to-camper ratio.

Venture
June 20 - July 2, 2010; Ages 14 - 18
Guinness Book of Riley Records
Venture campers may hear, “Congrats, you just set a new Camp Riley record” this summer as they challenge themselves to do something that no other camper or cabin group has done before. As a reward, their names will be carved into the Riley record books forever. Campers will focus on developing leadership and independent life skills through service, traditional camp activities and a 24-hour campout. They will also participate in “Pursuits of Excellence,” an intensive 36-hour experience devoted to personal challenge and service to others. These experiences occur on or off-site and can include backpacking, camping and raft-building. Our friends from the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana will present an adaptive sports clinic with water skiing, basketball, tennis and soccer while the Indiana Four Wheel Drive Association will again host the annual 4xKids Day. Additionally, campers will dance the night away during Venture Prom. This two-week session is for older campers who are ready for a longer camp experience and thrive in a 1-to-3 staff-to-camper ratio.

Top It Off
June 20 - July 2, 2010; Ages 17 - 18
Road Trip Indiana
This two-week session is for older, veteran campers seeking new challenges. As a team, campers spend their first few days planning and preparing for a road trip across Indiana. Using fully accessible transportation, campers and their counselors will hit the road, camping at state and public campgrounds. While en route they’ll participate in activities like rafting, tubing, visiting amusement parks and college campuses. This trip will broaden each camper’s view of independence, self-advocacy and public accessibility. This session is for veteran campers who are ready for a longer camp experience and thrive in a 1-to-3 staff-to-camper ratio.

Riley 2
July 11 - 16, 2010; Ages 8 - 18
Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?
Get out your magnifying glasses and use your detective skills for a week of mystery, fun games and trying to find Carmen Sandiego. Each day offers a new adventure from trying to crack the case to participating in traditional camp activities like swimming, sports, games, horseback riding (special release form required) and campouts. This one-week session is for campers who benefit from a 1-to-2 staff-to-camper ratio. Be prepared to have the time of your life!

Kan-Du
July 18 - 23, 2010; Ages 8 - 18
Animal Planet
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! Well, maybe not those animals, but there will be plenty of wildlife as Kan-Du campers experience their own version of Animal Planet. Smell and touch all that nature has to offer in this award-winning, one-week session that gives campers who need one-on-one attention and medical care a chance to experience the great adventures of camp. Campers will explore the environment using their five senses with stimulating activities involving the outdoors, pool, barn, art and the one-of-a-kind “Sensory Cave.” This session is specifically designed for youth with cognitive and physical functioning levels assessed between 0 and 48 months and who thrive in a 1-to-1 staff-to-camper ratio.

About Riley Children’s Foundation
Riley Children’s Foundation supports Riley Hospital for Children, Camp Riley for Youth with Physical Disabilities and the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home. As Indiana’s only comprehensive hospital dedicated exclusively to the care of children, Riley Hospital has provided compassionate care, support and comfort to children and their families since 1924. Every year children from all 92 Indiana counties turn to Riley Hospital and its regional clinics throughout the state more than 220,000 times. Riley Hospital’s partnership with Clarian Health and strong affiliation with the Indiana University School of Medicine make it the leader in pediatric care in the state and the region. RileyKids.org

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Students Ready for Purdue University Dance Marathon

2010-02-25T17:02:14+00:00

Students Ready for Purdue University Dance Marathon
More than 700 students expected for sixth annual event

INDIANAPOLIS (January 21, 2010) - Students in West Lafayette are gearing up for the sixth annual Purdue University Dance Marathon (PUDM) to benefit Riley Hospital for Children. The 18-hour event will be held at Purdue’s Recreational Sports Center (RSC) on Saturday, February 27 and Sunday, February 28.

An executive committee comprised of 20 students plan year-round to make the event a success. PUDM activities include testimonials from Riley families and other guest speakers, dance, music and other recreational activities. Members of the Boilermakers’ football team will attend and serve food at the event. PUDM will also honor John Romine, a Columbus native, former Purdue student and Riley Hospital patient who died of Hodgkin’s lymphoma on December 5, 2008.

This year, the sixth annual PUDM aims to surpass $100,000 for the second time. Last year more than 700 dancers, volunteers and alumni participants from Purdue University celebrated an event-high $101,550.92 for Riley Hospital. Since 2005, PUDM has raised more than $250,000 for Riley Hospital for Children.

WHAT:
Sixth annual Purdue University Dance Marathon (PUDM)
Approximately 700 participants expected

WHEN:
Saturday, February 27 - Sunday, February 28
(3 p.m. on Saturday through 9 a.m. on Sunday)

WHERE:
Purdue University campus
Recreational Sports Center (RSC)
355 N. Intramural Drive
West Lafayette, IN 47907

WHY:
To support Riley Hospital for Children. Thirty percent of the funds will benefit the cancer center, 30 percent will benefit Camp Riley for Youth with Physical Disabilities and the remaining 40 percent will provide assistance to the areas of most need within Riley Hospital.

PUDM is a member of the Riley Dance Marathon Program, the nation’s largest Children’s Miracle Network-affiliated dance marathon program. Students from 26 Indiana universities and high schools are lacing up their dancing shoes during the 2009-2010 academic year to raise money for Riley Hospital. Last year, schools combined to raise $1.7 million.

Indiana State University Dance Marathon Returns for the First Time in Seven Years

2010-02-23T17:09:03+00:00

Indiana State University Dance Marathon Returns for the First Time in Seven Years
Proceeds benefit Riley Hospital for Children

INDIANAPOLIS (February 22, 2010) -Students in Terre Haute are gearing up for the first dance marathon in seven years to take place at Indiana State University to benefit Riley Hospital for Children. The six-hour event runs from February 27 at 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. It will be held at the Indiana State University Arena (North Gym).

An executive committee comprised of 10 students plan year-round to make the event a success. Annie Smith, a junior in communication, decided to bring the dance marathon back to Indiana State University after noticing other major schools in Indiana were active participants.

“I’ve known a lot of people who have been patients at Riley,” Smith said. “It’s a really easy way to make a huge difference and a great way for students to learn about a good cause.”

The dance marathon will consist of approximately 100 dancers and entertainment will be provided by singers, bands and dance teams. In addition, Miss Indiana Nicole Pollard is scheduled to attend and deliver a speech about Children’s Miracle Network (CMN). Riley Hospital is the only CMN-affiliated hospital in Indiana.

WHAT:
Indiana State University Dance Marathon

WHEN:
Saturday, February 27; 6 p.m.-12 a.m.

WHERE:
Indiana State University campus
Indiana State University Arena (North Gym)
601 N. 6^th St.
Terre Haute, IN 47809

WHY:
Students will be on their feet for six hours raising money for Riley Hospital.

Indiana State University Dance Marathon is a member of the Riley Dance Marathon Program, the nation’s largest Children’s Miracle Network-affiliated dance marathon program. Students from 26 Indiana universities and high schools are lacing up their dancing shoes during the 2009-2010 academic year to raise money for Riley Hospital. Last year, schools combined to raise $1.7 million.

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Nation’s Largest High School Dance Marathon Celebrates Another Milestone

2010-02-22T15:56:42+00:00

Nation’s Largest High School Dance Marathon Celebrates Another Milestone
Carmel High School Dance Marathon raises nearly $175,000 for Riley Hospital for Children

INDIANAPOLIS (February 22, 2010) - Approximately 1,100 students participated in the fifth annual Carmel High School Dance Marathon on Saturday, February 20, and celebrated a record $174,545.72 contribution for the Ryan White Infectious Disease Center at Riley Hospital for Children. The event is the nation’s largest high school dance marathon according to Children’s Miracle Network.

Nearly one-quarter of the student body participated, and one dozen Riley patients and families shared their stories of appreciation for the hospital. The planning committee for the event is comprised of two staff advisors and 50 students. Last year Carmel High School Dance Marathon raised nearly $160,000 ($35,000 in 2006; $58,000 in 2007; $129,000 in 2008; $159,000 in 2009).

“The students tirelessly devote themselves to raise funds for the Ryan White Infectious Disease Center at Riley, the entity that provides children with HIV and other life-threatening infections an opportunity to find care,” explained Dr. Martin Kleiman, Director of the Ryan White Infectious Disease Center and Endowed Chair at Riley Hospital for Children.

Twenty-six Indiana universities and high schools are lacing up their dancing shoes during the year to raise money for Riley Hospital. Last year, schools combined to raise $1.7 million.

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Riley Hospital once again verified a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center

2010-02-03T15:39:03+00:00

Riley Hospital once again verified a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center

INDIANAPOLIS (January 25, 2010) - For the fifth time, Riley Hospital for Children - one of the nation’s leading pediatric hospitals and Indiana’s only comprehensive children’s hospital - has once again been verified a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Committee on Trauma. Riley Hospital was first verified in 1995.

Riley Hospital is the only Level I Pediatric Trauma Center in the state of Indiana, and is one of only 27 verified Level I Pediatric Trauma Centers in the nation. Riley Hospital continues to remain the most qualified hospital in the state to take care of critically injured children. Trauma patients include victims of pedestrian or motor vehicle accidents, burns, falls and other severe injuries.

Level I verification is the highest distinction for trauma centers. It means that Riley Hospital is capable of providing total comprehensive trauma care for every aspect of injury from pre-hospital phase through rehabilitation and injury prevention. The trauma service excels in part due to its integration with the Riley Emergency Department, the most sophisticated pediatric emergency center in the state caring for all children from minor illnesses to major multiple trauma.

The ACS is a scientific and educational association of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to raise the standards of surgical education and practice to improve the care of the surgical patient. The College has over 72,000 members and it is the largest association of surgeons in the world. Longstanding achievements have placed the ACS in the forefront of American surgery and have made it an important advocate for all surgical patients.

“We are extremely pleased to be once again verified as a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center,” said Dan Fink, president and CEO, Riley Hospital for Children. “The trauma team must be congratulated for their exceptional patient care. This special distinction means that Riley has the highest level of resources available to offer the most specialized care around the clock. The trauma program is fully integrated within the Riley Emergency Department, the Riley Burn Center and the Riley Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, bringing together the highest trained physicians and nurses to treat severely injured children.”

In addition to trauma, Riley Hospital remains committed to providing world-class medical care to all children - from life threatening illness to the most common medical problems. The Riley Emergency Department has been offering pediatric emergency care for more than 85 years and continues to treat the most severe pediatric illnesses and injuries.

RILEY PEDIATRIC TRAUMA FACTS:

Only Level I Pediatric Trauma Center in Indiana;
Only verified pediatric burn center in Indiana;
First pediatric emergency department in the state, with over 26,000 visits annually;
Treats more than 900 trauma patients per year;
Provides 24-hour access to pediatric specialists with the highest level of training and certification available; and offers multiple injury prevention programs throughout Indiana.

About Riley Hospital for Children
As one of the nation’s leading pediatric hospitals and Indiana’s first and only comprehensive hospital dedicated exclusively to the care of children, Riley Hospital for Children, a part of Clarian Health, has provided compassionate care, support and comfort to children and their families for 85 years. Each year, Riley Hospital and Riley Hospital at Clarian North serve over 215,000 inpatients and outpatients from across Indiana, the nation and the world. Riley Hospital’s partnership with Clarian Health, and its strong affiliation with the Indiana University School of Medicine, makes it the only comprehensive clinical resource for Indiana’s children and the premiere source for health-related information for their parents. From simple care associated with the health and wellness of children and less complex specialty care to the most critically-ill and medically complex cases, Riley Hospital for Children is a national leader. Clarian Health o perates the Methodist Hospital, Indiana University Hospital and Riley Hospital for Children campuses as a single hospital under Indiana law. Visit www.rileyhospital.org for more information.

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Media Contact:
Margie Smith-Simmons
Clarian Health
(317) 962-4085
msmithsi@clarian.org

Reggie Miller vs. The New York Knicks

2010-01-29T14:16:15+00:00

INDIANAPOLIS (January 20, 2010) - A special movie premiere featuring “Winning Time: Reggie Miller vs. The New York Knicks” will benefit three local charities including Riley Hospital for Children’s Pediatric Burn Unit. Tickets are now available for the Friday, February 26 event at Conseco Fieldhouse.

Part of ESPN Films’ “30 for 30” Documentary Series, “Winning Time: Reggie Miller vs. The New York Knicks” is directed by filmmaker Dan Klores and focuses on the 1994-95 Eastern Conference Semifinal Playoffs, which the Pacers won, four games to three. The film highlights Miller, the Pacers’ all-time leading scorer, and his part in what became a noted playoff rivalry through 2000. The film contains game highlights and interviews from those who took part in or witnessed the series.

Proceeds from the screening will benefit Pacers Foundation, Riley Hospital for Children’s Pediatric Burn Unit and Peoples Burn Foundation/Brave Hearts Camp.

WHAT: Special premiere movie event: Reggie Miller vs. The New York Knicks

WHEN: Friday, February 26; 8 p.m.
       (The movie airs to the public on Sunday, March 14 at 9 p.m. on ESPN)

WHERE: Conseco Fieldhouse; Downtown Indianapolis

TICKETS: Tickets for the premiere are $10 in advance ($12 day of event) and are available now at the Conseco Fieldhouse Box Office or Pacers.com.

Local Riley Patients to Attend Colts Playoff Game as “Coin Toss Kids”

2010-01-13T14:34:40+00:00

Local Riley Patients to Attend Colts Playoff Game as “Coin Toss Kids”
West Terre Haute youth will be honored at Lucas Oil Stadium

INDIANAPOLIS (January 13, 2010) - Riley Hospital for Children patients Creed and Christopher Fritz, West Terre Haute, will enjoy the honor as “Coin Toss Kids” when the Indianapolis Colts kickoff their playoff game versus the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday, January 16 at 8:15 p.m.

The family is receiving four tickets to the game and will enjoy limousine transportation from their Indianapolis hotel. Creed and Christopher will also collect an autographed Colts photo and a personalized Colts jersey. They will take part in the coin toss at the 50-yard line alongside National Football League referees and captains from each team.

During the regular season, two Riley Hospital patients received this honor at each home game. The opportunity is made possible thanks to a partnership between Riley Children’s Foundation and the Colts.

About Creed and Christopher Fritz
Hometown: West Terre Haute

Summary: Chris and Lauri Fritz welcomed triplets - Creed, Christopher and Rae-Ann - into the world in September of 2000, 12 weeks prematurely. Weighing less than three pounds each, the triplets were treated in the newborn intensive care unit at Riley Hospital. Sadly, Rae-Ann passed away at 18 weeks due to medical complications.

Today, 9-year-old brothers Creed and Christopher are third-grade students at West Vigo Elementary School. They are healthy, active and share a strong affinity for race cars. The two have been racing quarter midgets since age 5. Their cars are adorned with the Riley “R” and red wagon emblem as they often race to help support the hospital that saved their lives. The brothers also enjoyed meeting John Andretti this past summer as part of the annual Kroger Race for Riley presented by Cheerios, a go-kart event which has raised more than $1.5 million dollars for Riley Hospital throughout the years. They are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to step on the turf at Lucas Oil Stadium.

About Riley Children’s Foundation
Riley Children’s Foundation supports Riley Hospital for Children, Camp Riley for Youth with Physical Disabilities and the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home. As Indiana’s only comprehensive hospital dedicated exclusively to the care of children, Riley Hospital has provided compassionate care, support and comfort to children and their families since 1924. Every year children from all 92 Indiana counties turn to Riley Hospital and its regional clinics throughout the state more than 220,000 times. Riley Hospital’s partnership with Clarian Health and its strong affiliation with the Indiana University School of Medicine make Riley Hospital for Children the leader in pediatric care in the state and the region. RileyKids.org

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Tax Season Partnership Benefits Riley Patients

2010-01-08T16:46:03+00:00

Tax Season Partnership Benefits Riley Patients
Have your taxes prepared by H&R Block and they will donate $25 to Riley Hospital

INDIANAPOLIS (January 8, 2010) - This tax season, more than 150 H&R Block offices statewide are prepared to make $25 contributions to Riley Hospital for Children. Donations will be made for every new eligible client who conducts tax preparations. H&R Block area offices will also be accepting public donations and undertaking community fundraising events to benefit the work of Riley Hospital.

H&R Block will make tax preparation donations through April 15, 2010. Riley Children’s Foundation referral coupons should be presented by taxpayers at the time of service. Click here to download your H&R Block / Riley Children’s Foundation referral coupon.

On Saturday, January 16, H&R Block offices in Indianapolis, Muncie and Anderson will host Second Look Reviews. During that day, tax professionals will provide second look reviews of prior year returns prepared by taxpayers themselves or other firms, and provide a $25 donation to Riley Hospital. The $29 service looks for overlooked deductions, credits or math errors on completed tax returns, which can mean additional refunds for taxpayers.

“We’re very excited to be partnering with Riley Children’s Foundation,” said Clare Scales, H&R Block Public Relations Coordinator. “Whether it’s free tax advice, a community service project or raising money for charity, giving back is part of H&R Block’s culture.”

“We are so grateful to have dedicated partners like H&R Block,” said Sherry Sutton, Riley Children’s Foundation, “We hope the community will assist the children at Riley Hospital by participating in this great campaign.”

Last year H&R Block contributed approximately $26,000 to Riley Hospital.

About Riley Children’s Foundation
Riley Children’s Foundation supports Riley Hospital for Children, Camp Riley for Youth with Physical Disabilities and the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home. As Indiana’s only comprehensive hospital dedicated exclusively to the care of children, Riley Hospital has provided compassionate care, support and comfort to children and their families since 1924. Every year children from all 92 Indiana counties come to Riley Hospital and its regional clinics throughout the state more than 220,000 times. Riley Hospital’s partnership with Clarian Health and strong affiliation with the Indiana University School of Medicine make it the leader in pediatric care in the state and the region. RileyKids.org

About H&R Block
H&R Block Inc. (NYSE: HRB) is the world’s preeminent tax services provider, having prepared more than 500 million tax returns since 1955. In fiscal 2009, H&R Block had annual revenues of $4.1 billion and prepared more than 24 million tax returns worldwide, utilizing more than 120,000 highly trained tax professionals. The Company provides tax return preparation services in person, online through H&R Block Online, through its TaxCut® software and through other channels. The Company is also one of the leading providers of business services through RSM McGladrey. For more information visit our Online Press Center at www.hrblock.com.

Jim Irsay to Recognize Seven Patients, Philanthropists Selected as Riley Champions

2009-11-17T18:21:34+00:00

Jim Irsay to Recognize Seven Patients, Philanthropists Selected as Riley Champions
Riley Champion honors travel statewide

INDIANAPOLIS (November 13, 2009) - Advocate, fighter, hero and victor are words often associated with a champion. They also describe many of the children who visit Riley Hospital for Children and its regional clinics throughout the state more than 220,000 times each year. Riley patients distinguish themselves through courage, strength, spirit and heart. They’re fighters often overcoming medical obstacles and beating impossible odds. Riley children are also advocates who willingly share their stories of struggle and triumph in order to inspire a broad community response. On November 18, the 2009 class of Riley Champions will be honored.

WHAT:
Riley Children’s Foundation Annual Luncheon Presented by the Indianapolis Colts

WHEN:
Wednesday, November 18
Luncheon and Program: Noon - 2 p.m.

WHERE:
The Westin; Downtown Indianapolis
2^nd Floor Ballroom

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS:
The 2009 class of Riley Champions are scheduled to be honored by Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay.

Tyler Genneken, 14, Greenwood
Tyler lost his battle with leukemia on November 4. The eighth-grade student at Center Grove Middle School Central transformed his challenges into opportunities to help others. Upon diagnosis he joined a clinical trial at Riley Hospital to help find better treatments - and even a cure - for childhood cancers. Tyler organized fundraisers for Camp Little Red Door, a camp held at Bradford Woods for children with cancer. He also inspired record numbers of people to register at bone marrow drives throughout Indianapolis, with the focus of saving lives of future cancer patients.
Sarah Heimann, 17, Monroeville
Sarah was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis. The energetic senior attends Heritage Jr./Sr. High School and enjoys inspiring peers at the Cornerstone Youth Center.
Jac’Quel Jones, 11, Fort Wayne
Jac’Quel is currently fighting polycystic dysplasia kidney disease. The Village Woods student was selected as a Riley Hospital holiday card artist in 2008, a program which annually raises funds for the hospital.
Nick Long, 17, Brownsburg
Nick is challenged with complications from a premature birth including cerebral palsy. The junior at Brownsburg High School enjoys participating in Riley Hospital fundraisers year round, including John Andretti’s annual Race for Riley. John Andretti is flying back to Indianapolis this week to attend on behalf of champions and friend, Nick Long.
Tatum Parker, 9, Indianapolis
Tatum is a cancer patient and recently finished her second round of chemotherapy. She established her own non-profit, “Tatum’s Bags of Fun,” the local chapter of a national organization that distributes backpacks filled with fun items to help kids battling cancer.
Joel Paschen, 17, Walkerton
Joel, a soccer star from John Glenn High School, is currently recovering from ulcerative colitis and remains a strong advocate of Riley Hospital for Children.
Cleat Winkler, 15, Huntingburg
Cleat, a student at Southridge High School, is a high-spirited freshman who was treated at Riley Hospital for a brain tumor. He has continued his involvement through student council and his youth group.

About Riley Champions Presented by Walmart
Riley Children’s Foundation appreciates the unwavering efforts of Riley kids and their families. That is why the Foundation created “Riley Champions presented by Walmart.” The program, introduced in 2008, annually recognizes and honors a select group of remarkable Riley patients who have translated the courage they’ve shown during an illness or injury into philanthropic action in their community.

Champions are selected from nominations submitted by Riley Hospital and Riley Children’s Foundation staff, school administrators from around the state and the general public. Riley Champions is open to children ages 8-18 who have been treated at Riley Hospital in the past three years. Selected Riley Champions serve as statewide ambassadors for Riley Hospital and are publicly recognized in Indianapolis and their home communities. Each Riley Champion was honored as a “Coin Toss Kid” at the November 8 Indianapolis Colts game. They will also be featured in a PSA in their home community and honored at their school.

Riley Champions is presented by a long-standing supporter of Riley Hospital - Walmart. Since 1988, Walmart and Sam’s Club have raised more than $14 million for Riley Hospital.

About Riley Children’s Foundation
Riley Children’s Foundation supports Riley Hospital for Children, Camp Riley for Youth with Physical Disabilities and the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home. As Indiana’s only comprehensive hospital dedicated exclusively to the care of children, Riley Hospital has provided compassionate care, support and comfort to children and their families since 1924. Every year children from all 92 Indiana counties come to Riley Hospital and its regional clinics throughout the state more than 220,000 times. Riley Hospital’s partnership with Clarian Health and strong affiliation with the Indiana University School of Medicine make it the leader in pediatric care in the state and the region. RileyKids.org

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Jeff Gordon Foundation Makes $1.5 Million Commitment to Riley Children’s Foundation

2009-11-16T18:18:32+00:00

Jeff Gordon Foundation Makes $1.5 Million Commitment to Riley Children’s Foundation
Gift Establishes Pediatric Cancer Research Fund

INDIANAPOLIS- The Jeff Gordon Foundation recently commemorated A Decade of Caring - its tenth anniversary - with a pledge of $1.5 million to Riley Children’s Foundation. The gift establishes the Jeff Gordon Foundation Pediatric Cancer Research Fund. This fund will provide vital resources for Riley Hospital/Indiana University School of Medicine researchers seeking to impact treatments, therapies and cures. Since its first gift in 2001, The Jeff Gordon Foundation has given Riley more than $1.58 million.

Riley Hospital’s Cancer Center, a national leader in providing clinical care and conducting research for pediatric cancer, treats 75% of all children with cancer in Indiana. The Center’s achievements during the past decade include increasing survival rates by 10 percent for children with high risk neuroblastoma and acute myelogenous leukemia.

The gift from The Jeff Gordon Foundation will create a $1 million endowment to fund research conducted in partnership between Riley Hospital and the Wells Center for Pediatric Research at the Indiana University School of Medicine. The remaining $500,000 will address immediate research needs at Riley Hospital.

“It’s an honor to be able to work with Riley to establish The Jeff Gordon Foundation Pediatric Cancer Research Fund,” said Gordon. “Over 12,500 children are diagnosed with cancer each year, and we consider this gift vital to our Foundation’s commitment to finding a cure.”

Kevin O’Keefe, president and CEO of Riley Children’s Foundation, expressed appreciation for the gift: “Jeff and his foundation are national leaders in helping children and in promoting the importance of cancer research. They have made a tremendous impact at Riley Hospital during our eight-year relationship. We are grateful for their generosity and their commitment.”

Since its inception in 1999, The Jeff Gordon Foundation has awarded nearly $10 million to the country’s top childhood health organizations. These organizations are instrumental in helping tens of thousands of children facing serious illness. The partnerships developed over the years have brought much needed aid to patients and families with incredible financial burdens, provided life-saving medical treatment and help to fund promising new cancer research and treatment programs.

About Riley Children’s Foundation
Riley Children’s Foundation supports Riley Hospital for Children, Camp Riley for Youth with Physical Disabilities and the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home. As Indiana’s only comprehensive hospital dedicated exclusively to the care of children, Riley Hospital has provided compassionate care, support and comfort to children and their families since 1924. Every year children from all 92 Indiana counties come to Riley Hospital and its regional clinics throughout the state more than 220,000 times. Riley Hospital’s partnership with Clarian Health and strong affiliation with the Indiana University School of Medicine make it the leader in pediatric care in the state and the region. RileyKids.org

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