Ellie and Nikki Fontanetta

Come on out to support both Children’s Memorial Hospital and the Children’s Miracle Network this weekend!

About 5 years ago, I had the pleasure of making the acquaintance of a wonderful woman who would soon prove to be simply amazing.  Nikki Fontanetta was my daughter’s kindergarten teacher at Prairie school and the minute I met her, I knew I was going to like her.  Her smile lights up a room and makes you feel welcome.  I now see her every school day in the drop off line as I drive my youngest son to school and am greeted, every morning, with that sincere smile and excited wave.  Nikki is a genuinely kind-hearted and beautiful woman, inside and out.

Nikki’s 6-year-old daughter, Ellie, was diagnosed with spina bifida while still in utero at 20 weeks.  When she was born, she was rushed to Children’s Memorial Hospital. In addition to her exposed spinal cord and nerve damage, she had an array of other issues including hyper-extended knees, club feet, and hydrocephalus.

Ellie had two surgeries within her first few days of life. There were limited expectations as to what she would ever accomplish. But, says Nikki, “Children’s taught us how to fight for her. She has defied most odds given to her. With numerous therapies several times a week, she is a successful little girl. She has gone on to walk, learn and participate in many things with her able-bodied peers.”

Ellie now attends school with all her neighborhood friends in a regular first grade classroom and makes excellent grades. She plays hockey, miracle league baseball, and dances ballet and tap. Nikki believes that Ellie can do all of these things thanks to the miracles of medicine, the gift of modern technology, the love of family, and the spirit of hope. All of these things, Nikki says, they received at Children’s Memorial.

“Children’s is not just a hospital,” said Nikki, “it is a family of doctors, nurses, and staff reaching out, hugging you, and caring for your whole family.”

Nikki, being Nikki, does all that she can to show Children’s just how much she appreciates all they have done for Ellie.

This weekend she is hosting her annual “Hot Dogs for Hope” fundraiser at her home in Lockport.  So come on out and show your support as well.  All proceeds from the two-day event will benefit Children’s Memorial Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network.

See you there!

Where………14964 Austin Drive, Lockport IL   map
When………..Friday, June 10th and Saturday, June 11th  from 8:00 am-3:00 pm