Last night we had the honor of attending The National Pancreas Foundation Gala. It was a beautiful event that raised over $150,000 to help fund research and advancements in treatment for pancreas diseases. Currently there is no cure for this awful, life altering disease. Miss Illinois, Breana Bagley, was in attendance. Her mother was diagnosed with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis, and she uses her reign to bring awareness to pancreatic disease and is actively involved with the National Pancreas Foundation. Two of Gillian’s physicians received awards for their tireless efforts to bring awareness and their compassion and commitment to the pediatric pancreatitis community.
Four of Gillian’s fellow campers (at Camp Hope) received the Hero of Hope award. All four have had the same TPIAT surgery that Gillian had the beginning of March. Camp Hope in San Antonio, TX is a summer camp for kids with pediatric pancreatitis. It is a place where these kids, who have been through more than most people in their entire lifetime, have the opportunity to meet kids from all across the country with the same disease. They have medical staff that donate a week of their time to ensure these kids can participate in activities and keep them out of the hospital for the week. Almost everyone on Gillian’s transplant team at Nationwide Children’s and her GI team at Primary Children’s donate an entire week of their time every summer to Camp Hope and these incredibly brave and strong kiddos. NPF makes it possible for all kids with pancreatitis to attend. Our lives are forever changed by Gillian’s time at Camp Hope. We met lifelong friends and it led us to where we are today. We are so grateful for NPF, Camp Hope and every single person that has had a hand in this difficult, yet rewarding journey. Thank you! 💜💜