Children’s Hospital patient will represent Tennessee as Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Champion

Chattanooga,Tenn.– Children’s Hospital at Erlanger announced this year’s Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Tennessee Champion, Andrew Ellis, during a special event held on May 3, at Wilson Air Center located at the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport. 

 “This is the second year in a row we have had the pleasure of announcing one of our patients will represent Tennessee for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals,” said Betsy Taylor, President of Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Nine-year-old Andrew Ellis came to Children’s Hospital by LIFEFORCE Air Medical the night of April 27, 2011.  A tornado ripped through his grandmother’s home in Apison, Tenn., killing four of his family members and dragging him through a field where rescuers later found him.  His mother credits the bravery that was displayed by rescuers and the lifesaving skills provided by medical personnel for saving his life that night. 

“April 27^th, 2011, was a life changing event that will always be bittersweet,” said Wendy Ellis, Andrew’s mother.  “In one breath, I received the news that not only had I lost four of my closest family members, including Andrew’s brother Adam, but the lone survivor, my son Andrew, was being airlifted to Children’s Hospital at Erlanger with life threatening injuries.  Despite my emotions being in a whirlwind at the time, there was a sense of security in my heart just knowing the care he would receive once he arrived at the hospital.”

 Andrew was named a Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Champion for his miraculous survival and his determination to live life to the fullest and will represent all pediatric patients in children’s hospitals across the state. 

“Today, as I see Andrew and his miraculous recovery he has made throughout this past year, I know this could not be possible without the services of the Children’s Miracle Network,” added Ms. Ellis.  “I want to express my sincerest thanks to all!”

In the fall, Andrew will serve as an ambassador and visit Washington, D.C.While in Washington, he, along with Champions from other states, will visit The White House and Capitol Hill. He will then take part in Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals’ annual celebration event in Orlando, Fla.

Delta Airlines, this year’s Champions program title sponsor, has been a proud supporter of CMN Hospitals since 1998.  Other 2012 partners include Ace Hardware andChico’s FAS.

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