Hello, thanks for visiting my Courage Classic fundraising page! I work as a PA (physician assistant/associate) in the Pediatric Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (CCBD) at Children's Hospital Colorado. Patients treated in this department have various blood and immune system diseases; including cancer, inherited and acquired immunodeficiencies, sickle-cell disease, and bone marrow disorders. Our patients range in age from newborn to young adult. I ride in honor and memory of every amazing patient that walks into the CCBD!
Over the years (going on 8!), I have been impacted by the lives of so many strong, brave, and often very sick children. By participating in the Courage Classic, and raising funds to support the CCBD, I am excited to bring resources ($$!) that are necessary to create positive change for our super hero patients. The funds raised through this endevour will contribute to to important research projects, which help us develop better treatments for patients - treatments that provide a better chance for cure and fewer side effects. The funds will also enhance our wellness programs, which help us care for children beyond their "diagnosis." These progrmas provide various forms of incredibly important psychosocial support for our patients and their families.
I am excited to take on this personal challenge, which is nothing compared to the challenging diagnoses my patients and their families face everyday. If you're interested in learning more about the work I do or the Courage Classic, please ask me! If this mission speaks to your heart, please donate to my page or my husband, Jeff O'Dell, or daughter, Ava O'Dell (her first year as an official participant!!)!
Thank you! - Kali O'Dell
