For the Kids (FTK) is a Middlebury College student service organization that raises money for our local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital, the UVM Children’s Hospital, in Burlington, VT. We are a part of a nationwide movement of over 300 schools to support local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Our culminating fundraising event of the year, the Middlebury Dance Marathon, was held this past Friday from 4-10 pm in the McCullough Social Space. This year we hosted over 150 students, volunteers, CMNH Champions, and hospital staff for a night of live student performances, local food, and, of course, dancing! At the end of night, we were excited to announce that we have raised nearly $20,000 for the children’s hospital! All of the money raised will go directly to the hospital to provide child-life care, research, and medical equipment for the children and families it serves.
This year, like every year, I danced at the Midd Dance Marathon for Vermont’s 2012 Champion, Victoria. When Victoria was six, she woke up one night with severe stomach pains. She went through numerous tests at the UVM Children’s Hospital, where doctors discovered that her intestines were twisted — a life threatening condition known as congenital intestinal malrotation. Over the years, Victoria has been able to manage this health condition without corrective surgery, but she needs to see the doctor more frequently, as routine illnesses affect her much more severely. Victoria is always at risk of needing emergency surgery if a problem occurs. Despite her condition, Victoria is one of the most vibrant and optimistic people that I know. I serve with FTK because I want kids like Victoria to receive the best care and comfort that the UVM Children’s Hospital can provide.
Chloe Johnson
Co-President of FTK