It's that time of year again!! I'm riding in the Courage Classic in July at Copper Mountain with my team, the Cardiac Climbers. As some of you may know, I work in the Cardiac ICU at Children's Hospital Colorado. We are riding to raise money for our Heart Institute at CHCO; all money raised goes directly back to projects across our department. Please help me reach my goal of $500!
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I am so excited to finally share the heart warrior that I'm riding for this year- Hunter!!!! Hunter and his family prepared a little summary of his journey for me to share with you all:
"I got a special heart on Oct. 24th, 2025.
Hi! I'm Hunter I'm in 5th grade at Falcon Elementary School of Technology in Falcon, CO.
Did you know that some kids are born with special hearts?
Some kids with special hearts might need surgeries or medicine to help their hearts work their best. But you know what? Those kids are just like you and me!
I should know - because I have a special heart!
I was born with Aortic and Pulmonary Stenosis. That means blood doesn't flow through my heart and to my body like it's supposed to. So I had a procedure as a baby and one at a year and 5 days old. Then at the age of 11 I had surgery to replace my Aortic Valve. This surgery then led to a heart transplant to help me!
But while my heart is special, I'm special just the way I am.
I love to build Legos, play basketball, play catch with my dad, play video games and go rock hounding.
Thank you for spreading love and awareness about special hearts. You're awesome Devin!"
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Hunter is an amazing kid who went through a series of surgeries that ultimately led to a heart transplant. His positive attitude and sense of humor carried him through some of the toughest moments a human, let alone a child, could face. I was always so excited to come to work and find out that I was taking care of him! I am honored and humbled to be riding for him in this year's Courage Classic.
I'm happy that you're here and that you get to be a part of this. I can't wait!
Sincerely,
Devin