Showing posts with label short gut syndrome. Show all posts
Showing posts with label short gut syndrome. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

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/