Riley Champions

Imagine throwing out the first pitch at a baseball game; giving an invocation for 200 Riley friends and supporters during a luncheon; participating in a prominent fashion show; successfully initiating a new Riley fundraising program at school; and capturing your community’s heart - all in 12 months.

Such is the life of a Riley Champion. They willingly spend their time raising awareness, raising funds and raising spirits.

Inaugural Riley Champions Alexis Allen, Jodi and Sarah Camino, Timothy Courtney, Sheila Fraser and Jordan Wilkinson recently passed the torch to the new class, but not before making their mark on the program.

Riley Children’s Foundation launched Riley Champions last fall to honor Riley Hospital for Children patients who have inspired communities with their courage and commitment to help others, despite facing difficult medical challenges. Walmart and Sam’s Club sponsor the program and have been champions for Riley kids since 1988, raising more than $14 million for Riley Hospital.

The 2009 Riley Champions were officially recognized during the Riley Annual Luncheon on November 18. The Indianapolis Colts also honored them as Coin Toss Kids on November 8. Click on the names below to get a tiny glimpse of how the 2009 Riley Champions bravely face each day with hope and strive to give meaning to their struggles

• Tyler Genneken, 14, from Greenwood
• Sarah Heimann, 17, from Monroeville
• Jac’Quel Jones, 11, from Fort Wayne
• Nick Long, 17, from Brownsburg
• Tatum Parker, 9, from Indianapolis
• Joel Paschen, 17, from Walkerton
• Cleat Winkler, 15, from Holland

Do you know someone between the ages of 8 and 18 that has been treated by Riley Hospital within the last three years that should be a Riley Champion? Nominate them and tell us why. Please complete the nomination form and submit it to Riley Children’s Foundation. Selected Riley Champions are notified in September.