Renown Health news release:
Renown Children’s Miracle Network recently purchased a Camino(R) intracranial brain pressure monitor to treat young patients with head-related injuries and diseases. The purchase was made possible by a $10,000 donation from Imagination Station Learning Center, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, Washoe County and the friends and family of 2007 CMN Miracle Child Matthew Cummings.
These groups coordinated T-shirt and garage sales, scrapbook events, penny drives and a silent auction to raise funds to help Matthew in his battle with arteriovenous malformation, an abnormal collection of blood vessels in the brain. Cummings was diagnosed in 2005 and, as a result, underwent two brain surgeries to help correct the symptoms he experienced.
After all Cummings’ medical expenses were paid, the extra money was donated to CMN in his honor.
“It is rewarding beyond words to have something tangible represent all the love and support our friends and family gave us during Matthew’s adventure,” said Tami Cummings, Matthew’s mother. “The support of this group not only contributed to Matthew’s complete recovery but will now also impact the lives of other children who will benefit from this equipment. It’s a perfect illustration of paying it forward.”
Kathy Etchemendy, co-owner of Imagination Station Learning Center in Sparks, presented the check on Cummings’ behalf. Etchemendy and her staff played a significant role in the fundraising efforts to assist in Matthew’s second surgery through a variety of events and sales. The Cummings family wanted to recognize the efforts and support they received from Imagination Station.
“The owners, teachers, parents and children of Imagination Station Learning Center were a testimonial to the healing power of people,” said Tami Cummings. “It would take pages to illustrate the loving and creative ways they supported us. From visiting us daily in the hospital during our first three-week stay, to having his whole class wear bike helmets upon his return to school to ease his discomfort at having to wear a helmet during outdoor play, they advocated for Matthew throughout it all.”
Cummings also said that throughout Matthew’s hospital stay, Imagination Station introduced compassionate teaching, sharing age appropriate events on what was happening with Matthew and what to expect upon his return.
“It is through generous support and donations like this one, we are able to provide the community with quality care for children right here at home,” said Joel Muller, vice president of the Renown Health Foundation.
