Children’s Miracle Network of Northern New York Names 2025 Champion
Published on: January 10, 2025
Watertown, NY — Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals of Northern New York is pleased to announce 8-year-old Raelynn Graveline of Watertown as its 2025 Champion.
Each year, 170 Children’s Miracle Network hospitals across the country identify a champion in their community to serve as the face for children treated at their hospital. Children’s Miracle Network of Northern New York at Samaritan Medical Center (CMN) has chosen an annual local champion since 2019. The 2024 Champion was Sophia O’Connor of Carthage.
“Raelynn and her family have been actively involved with our CMN program since she was an infant,” said Angie VanWormer, director of Children’s Miracle Network at Samaritan. “She had a rough start, but now she’s spunky, spirited, and excited to take on this role. Her family is always looking for ways to give back, and we are grateful that they are part of our CMN family.”
Raelynn’s journey began with an unexpected diagnosis: Tetralogy of Fallot, a complex heart condition. At just 21 days old, she underwent open-heart surgery, followed by a rollercoaster recovery filled with challenges. She needed a second surgery, and the financial strain on her family grew. That’s when they learned about the Direct Family Assistance Program offered by CMN at Samaritan. The program provided crucial financial assistance for medical expenses and travel. Today, Raelynn is thriving, and her family is thankful for the support that helped them through their darkest days.
Regarding the assistance provided to them by CMN, Raelynn’s mother, Amanda, says, “You never know when it could be you. I certainly didn’t expect to need it, but when you do, it’s a blessing.” Raelynn’s father, Michael, added, “CMN has helped us out so much, and any time we get a chance to help them back, we take it.”
Through the Direct Family Assistance Program, CMN continues to be there for Raelynn and kids like her to help ease the financial burden of medical care. This program is available to children in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties who are facing a health crisis to help with out-of-pocket costs related to necessary medical care, including travel to specialists and expenses not covered by insurance.
For more information on Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, contact Samaritan Medical Center at 315-785-4053 or [email protected]
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