A.J. Stinger

A.J. Stinger is a remarkable 10-year-old boy from Marion, Ind., who has shown tremendous courage in his fight against leukemia and who now is turning his experience into compassion for others.

In October 2008 A.J. became ill with what his parents and physician initially thought was a bad cold and nasty cough. When A.J. didn’t recover after finishing a prescribed antibiotic, his physician ordered blood work. The results concerned her. She immediately called Riley Hospital and scheduled an appointment for A.J. the following morning.

The Stingers traveled two hours to Riley Hospital, where they received devastating news. Physicians diagnosed A.J. with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and immediately admitted him to the hospital. In the following months A.J. experienced nearly every possible negative side effect of chemotherapy, including mouth sores, fevers and pancreatitis. He also lost nearly 30 pounds from his small childish frame.

A.J. is doing better now. He is an excellent third grade student, his hair is growing back, and he’s gained about 10 pounds. With his improved health, A.J. decided to support Riley Hospital and reach out to children and families experiencing similar situations. Buying gifts for children who will spend this holiday season in the hospital is at the top of A.J.’s philanthropic list. Knowing what his own parents went through during his hospital stays, A.J. is also arranging for several “parents’ nights out” for Riley families.

A.J.’s big heart, spunk and resolve led to him being selected as Indiana’s ambassador for the Children’s Miracle Network 2009 “Champions Across America” program, which honors children who have triumphed despite medical challenges. A.J. and his parents  traveled to Orlando, Fla., and Washington, D.C., in March 2009 to highlight the vital work of children’s hospitals.

A.J. is an excellent ambassador for Riley Hospital and Indiana because he knows, as he often says, “I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the doctors and nurses at Riley who took care of me.” The doctors, nurses and staff members who have met A.J. agree. One doctor said it perfectly after observing A.J. at a fundraising event, “That boy was born to spread the word.”