Hope for Patrick

Congenital disorders have a wide variety of birth defects. One such serious problem is "short gut syndrome" meaning, the complete dysfunction of a large segment of bowel or simply they're missing most of their intestines.

I met Patrick Hoopes, an adorable little boy with big brown eyes and an infectious smile, while I was staying as a patient in the Primary Children's Medical Center waiting for my heart transplant.

When his parents Emily and Brian Hoopes adopted Patrick they knew he had some medical challenges, but did not know to what extent. They've loved this boy from the first time they saw him and knew he would be their son.

Doctors informed the Hoopes that Patrick needs an intestinal transplant or he will not live more than a few years. His family are traveling back and forth to Seattle Children's Hospital from Salt Lake City where Patrick has been listed for an intestinal transplant.

I promised the family that if I made it out the hospital alive I would do what I can to help. This is why I'm hosting a benefit concert for Patrick. It's a rare and unusual situation and I'm thrilled to be a small part of his amazing life.

For more information and to purchase concert tickets visit:
http://www.showclix.com/event/9223/

2010 Congenital Disorder Scholarship Information

Last Fall, The Paul Cardall Scholarship for Students Affected by Congenital Disorders was established to financially assist people affected by congenital disorders such as congenital heart disease, spina bifida, Down syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome, cystic fibrosis and other birth defects, or who have had an organ transplant.

Photo: Money was raised by our community for this scholarship at my Abravanel Hall Annual Celebrate Life Concert event.

The deadline for applicants is May 3rd. A full tuition waiver for 1 year will be awarded the following month.

This scholarship is available to residents of the Rocky Mountain Region who have been diagnosed with a congenital disorder or who have had an organ transplant, or whose children have been diagnosed with a congenital disorder or had an organ transplant.

Applicants must demonstrate financial need and be degree or certificate-seeking students at Salt Lake Community College, and enroll in at least 9 credit hours but not more than 18 credit hours in an eligible program. Successful applicants will have demonstrated courage and character in their response to the challenge of congenital disorders.

The application and selection process for the Paul Cardall Scholarship for Students Affected by Congenital Disorders will be by committee, jointly overseen and administered by the SLCC Development Office and the SLCC Financial Aid Office.

If you or someone you know would be interested in this opportunity click here to apply