SASKATCHEWAN — From the beginning of his life, 10-year-old Blaze from Carlyle, has overcome many physical challenges, but he hasn’t let anything dampen his positive spirit. His “be strong, never, ever give up” attitude has helped him through eight different surgeries for bilateral club feet, strabismus, as well as a tethered spine and a life-threatening accident.
In August of 2022, Blaze was in a vehicle accident, breaking his humerus and femur. After a series of x-rays, Blaze was airlifted by plane to Saskatchewan’s Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, receiving critical care from the only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in Saskatchewan. It’s been a long recovery after his surgery, but his family is grateful for having JPCH in our province and for being able to stay in Saskatchewan for his treatment.
“The care we received was amazing. A children’s hospital is vital in our province. Without it, I am not sure where Blaze would have been sent. He got the specialized care he needed close to home, in a fantastic facility with a stellar team,” Blaze’s mom Carole-Lyne said.
His optimistic attitude towards the endless challenges he has faced, along with the care he has received at JPCH, drastically improved his recovery. Blaze has now become passionate about giving back and being an advocate for JPCH, raising over $75,000 through a variety of fundraisers in and around Carlyle. In recognition of his commitment, he received the 2023 National Philanthropy Day Outstanding Youth Philanthropist award, nominated by Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Blaze has been chosen as the 2025 Saskatchewan ambassador, representing Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation for the Children’s Miracle Network Champions Program.
“We are excited to announce Blaze as this year’s Champion Child, representing sick and injured kids across Saskatchewan. Blaze’s compassionate spirit and resiliency are inspirational to everyone he meets and we are honoured to have him in this role,” said Jada Kook, Community Engagement Manager at JPCHF.
Through the Champion Program, Blaze and his family will get the opportunity to travel to Orlando, FL. this spring to represent Saskatchewan families at Children’s Hospitals Week and meet other child ambassadors from across North America.
Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation wants to thank Kherington who passes the role of Champion Child to Blaze. Kherington has been an outstanding ambassador for the foundation and did an incredible job sharing her medical journey across the province, the foundation states in a press release.