ST. LOUIS, MO – On October 5th, 2024, the McLean, Illinois community came together to support the second-annual Helping Henry’s Heroes fundraiser event throughout the downtown square of McLean, IL. As a former patient at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge in St. Louis, MO, Henry – who turned five in July – received invaluable help and support during his toughest times.
Now, Henry continues to make incredible strides in his recovery, channeling his determination into helping those who once helped him.
Over 100 local businesses generously donated to make Henry’s birthday celebration a success, raising $5,660.50 for Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital.
When Henry was 18-months-old, he lost his ability to crawl, pull up and stand. Doctors discovered a mass on his brain and performed immediate surgery to remove a benign tumor. Post-surgery, Henry experienced Posterior Fossa Syndrome: he couldn’t move his left side, hold his head up, swallow, eat or talk.
Henry was referred to Ranken Jordan for his recovery. In 35 days, he regained much of his mobility, began eating and speaking again. His quality of life skyrocketed. Today, Henry is thriving, and is beginning to walk on his own with the help of a walker.
Participants enjoyed live music from THE MIKEY HORN BAND, a vendor fair, activities for kids (including bounce houses, photo booth and an inflatable bubble house), food and fundraising activities, including a silent auction.
Meals from the generous team at the Brass Pig Smoke & Alehouse were served for a suggested donation, with 100% of proceeds going to Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital.
Guests also donated blankets for an entry into a drawing to win $100.
The Batty Family designed this event to support Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital.
Ranken Jordan underscores the importance of play in the developmental growth of children. Current projects include construction of new classrooms for their Optimization Zone (OZ), a preschool inside of the hospital, that will lead to countless milestones for the many children who attend OZ sessions while they are patients at Ranken Jordan.
Last year, this event raised over $7,000 in support of Helping Henry’s Heroes at Ranken Jordan.
Those interested can purchase a t-shirt from the event here, or can donate through Just Giving, here. 100% of proceeds from the event and online efforts will be donated to Ranken Jordan.
