Radiothon DJ Experiences Children’s Firsthand

Participating in her first Alice’s 36 Hours for Kids radiothon last year, Jennifer Wilde, Alice 105.9 morning show host, was touched by the stories she heard from parents and kids at Children’s. For three straight days, Jennifer counted her blessings as she worked the broadcasting booth set up in the hospital’s lobby.

Her heart went out to the families she interviewed. As she spoke with such courageous patients and their parents, she was reminded of how lucky she is to healthy children of her own. Jennifer knows firsthand the quality of care at Children’s.

Last fall, Jennifer rushed her daughter to The Children’s Hospital at Parker Adventist after six-year-old Katelyn complained of a stomachache. By the time they arrived, the little girl was doubled over in pain and had to be transported via wheelchair.

Katelyn was immediately admitted, and a CT scan showed she was not only suffering from appendicitis, but also a mild case of pneumonia. Following routine abdominal surgery to remove her appendix, her recovery was slowed due to the incessant coughing brought on by her pneumonia.

“She hated doing her breathing treatments, but the doctors and nurses kept telling her how strong and what a big girl she was. That helped give her the strength and confidence she needed to get better,” recalled Jennifer. “It’s the little touches that separate The Children’s Hospital from all other hospitals. So many good people gravitate toward Children’s because they really do want to make a difference. Whether a child is there for something major or a routine visit, they are all treated with the great same care.”

The parent of a former Children’s patient, Jennifer looks forward to returning to the hospital Feb., 14-16 for Children’s Miracle Network’s annual Alice’s 36 Hours for Kids radiothon. She now knows firsthand just how important it is to support The Children’s Hospital, and she hopes the event will raise even more money than it did last year.