Ramonie Smith

Few people have faced odds like Ramonie Smith of Indianapolis. At 20 months, Ramonie was diagnosed with a rare immune system disorder that made her more susceptible to infections, fluid retention and dangerous protein loss.

At age 3, Ramonie experienced kidney failure. Dialysis kept her alive until she received a kidney transplant at Riley Hospital in 2007.

Against the odds, her disease returned three days after surgery. Ramonie began aggressive treatments that replaced her blood. Doctors knew if the treatment didn’t work, the new kidney could be lost and subsequent transplants would have lower chances of success.

Now 8, Ramonie is in remission and doing remarkably well.

“Riley Hospital has literally meant the difference between life and death,” said Melissa Smith Jones, Ramonie’s mom. “No other hospital could have accomplished the amazing results that we have today.”

Ramonie and her family have chosen to give back to the hospital that saved her life. They have spoken at various fundraisers as well as
cultivated a new Kids Caring & Sharing program at Monument Lighthouse Charter School.

“Riley helped me feel better,” explains Ramonie. “I was sick for a very long time. Now I can play and go to school and slumber parties.”

Ramonie’s enthusiastic support of Riley and her triumph despite severe medical challenges led to her being selected as Indiana’s ambassador for the 2010 Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Champions program presented by Walmart and Sam’s Club.

“When we asked to tell Ramonie’s story, we just wanted other families to know that hope happens at Riley Hospital,” added Melissa. “We never dreamed her journey would lead to this. We are very proud for her to represent Riley and spread the word about how CMN-sponsored hospitals can help children when the odds are stacked against them.”

Ramonie’s physicians are also thrilled.

“Ramonie will be a great ambassador for Riley. It has been our pleasure to care for her,” said Dr. Sharon Andreoli, Director of Pediatric Nephrology at Riley Hospital.

Ramonie’s 2010 calendar is filling up fast. In May she will be officially recognized as a CMN Champion during a press conference, which will launch her into a June 6-10 trip to Washington, D.C., and a November 8-13 trip to Walt Disney World. During her travels, Ramonie will join other CMN Champions from across the United States, Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom and Australia.

Representing Riley makes Ramonie feel “happy, excited and very special.” She looks forward to meeting other ambassadors and helping other sick children.