Patient Stories
Helping Autistic Children Navigate Life
Four year-old Ja’Terrion was completely non-verbal when he was diagnosed and became a patient at the Autism Center of The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. However, this early-age intervention was to make a huge difference in his life. As a result of the speech therapy he received, he went from not saying anything to actually using words. Today, two years later, Ja’Terrion is enrolled in kindergarten and continuing to make progress in his communication skills.
Nov 15, 2022
Patient Stories
Stephanie Kemp: Breast Cancer Survivor Finds Her Calling
Ascension Sacred Heart Breast Care Nurse Navigator Stephanie Kemp wears many hats as she guides patients through their breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery: she’s an educator, cheerleader, social worker, counselor and advocate. And just like the patients she interacts with daily, she’s also a breast cancer survivor.
Oct 13, 2022
Sam Poe
Six months ago, Gina Poe's 14-year-old, Sam, started experiencing fever, night sweats, and swollen lymph nodes in his neck. Initially, their pediatrician thought Sam had an infection, so he prescribed antibiotics. When swelling continued for several months, they were referred to a specialist who ordered further tests and imaging.
Sep 20, 2022
Patient Stories
Katie Mitchell To Serve as Children’s Miracle Network® Champion
Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation is pleased to announce that Katie Mitchell has been chosen as our 2022 Children’s Miracle Network® (CMN) Champion, advocating for member hospital Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. CMN is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds and community support for 170 children’s hospitals throughout North America. Each year, CMN hospitals are invited to submit the story of a child who has been treated in their facility. This child will serve as a CMN ambassador and face of the hospital for partner campaigns and various events that generate donations. One hundred percent of the donations stays in our local area to support pediatric treatments and healthcare services, medical equipment and philanthropic care.
Apr 05, 2022
Donor Stories
For the Little Ones, Featuring the Little Ones
Autumn and Peyton Blackledge are inaugural chairpersons of the official Krewe of Les Petites Enfants (Order of the Small Children), named in honor of those whose needs it will help support. With an initial goal of 50 participants, the krewe’s membership fee will go towards the purchase of a neonatal transport unit for Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart.
Jan 05, 2022
Donor Stories
Giving Back to the Community They Serve
Dave and Mary Hoxeng built their award-winning, local radio team together, a joint venture of highly distinctive skill-sets. While owning a radio station was a lifelong dream of Dave’s, it took a lot of patience and due diligence to make it happen. He applied in 1984 for a new radio license in Pensacola, which turned out to be a very long process, about fifteen years actually. In 2002, Dave and Mary moved to this area to start up their first radio station from scratch: CatCountry 98.7. Then they got the opportunity to purchase a run-down station in Atmore that eventually became NewsRadio 1620 / 92.3. This was followed up with yet another acquisition, WEBY-ESPN 1330/99.1. Recently, they started Playlist 94.5 which plays Pensacola’s favorite hit music non-stop. Today, Mary is General and Sales Manager of all four stations, while Dave is CEO and self-described “catalyst.”
Jun 15, 2021
Donor Stories
Leading and Supporting the Ministry
Susan Cornejo is the Chief Operations Officer (COO) for Ascension Florida Gulf Coast Ministry Market. She was born at Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, but within a few years the family moved to Indiana. There, her father, a mechanical engineer, held a management position for International Harvester (later Navistar), and her mother was employed as a nurse.
Jun 01, 2021
News & Updates
Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Expands Pediatric Emergency Care
Families in Walton County and Destin in need of emergency care for their children now can find it closer to home. As of December 14, 2020, Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast (ASHEC) began offering expanded access to pediatric emergency care, closely supported by the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. This new partnership allows for more direct connections between the pediatric ER expansion in Miramar Beach, and the specialists at Children’s Hospital, the region’s only state-of- the-art facility dedicated to infants and children.
May 04, 2021
Donor Stories
Preserving the Past for a Brighter Future
Aaron Ball recalls sitting on the sunlit back porch of his great grandmother’s farmhouse as a young boy in Andalusia, Alabama, listening intently as the old family camcorder recorded her. His father asked the good-natured matriarch questions about her life lessons from difficult times, about her fondest memories and most meaningful family heirlooms. “Back porch interviews,” as Aaron calls them, are a primary technique he now uses to capture authentic and compelling stories as an archivist and communications’ consultant. He explains, “The term is personal archiving. It’s about capturing details that are meaningful to individuals and companies, organizing them, and preserving the best of your culture to inspire the next generation.”
Apr 20, 2021
News & Updates
Introducing Ascension Sacred Heart Bay’s Regional Clinical Education Center
For over 70 years, Ascension Sacred Heart Bay (ASHB) has been a pillar of the Panama City community and its environs. It was nearly destroyed when Hurricane Michael ravaged the Florida Panhandle in October 2018. Despite personal challenges, its heroic staff evacuated patients and provided emergency care throughout the storm and its aftermath.
Apr 06, 2021
Donor Stories
Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation
Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), recognized as the fifth largest charity wine auction in the U.S. by Wine Spectator, is pleased to announce the donation of $1.2 million to 16 children’s charities in Northwest Florida following its first virtual auction on August 22.
Mar 30, 2021
Donor Stories
Service Above Self
Kerry Anne Schultz was born in a small Nebraska town, the eldest of six children in a Catholic family whose parents were role models for hard work and heartfelt values. She and her siblings, at very young ages, were taught to be kind to others and help their neighbors. They were also encouraged to think “service above self”, which became Kerry Anne’s guiding life principle.
Mar 16, 2021
Donor Stories
Serving with Heart
The Volunteer Guild at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast is devoted to serving the community through substantial support of the hospital’s mission. The Guild is a Christ-centered organization with values that mirror those of the Daughters of Charity, founders of the original Sacred Heart Hospital. Their vision was to provide healthcare to all, with emphasis on the poor and most vulnerable. Guild volunteers consider it a privilege to help carry on this century-old ministry of hope and healing.
Mar 02, 2021
Donor Stories
Lauren Bonner: Artist & Advocate
Lauren Bonner was still in high school when she painted the mural that playfully leads the way into the new Bear Family Foundation Center For Hope at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Feb 16, 2021
Donor Stories
Long-Term Care Administrator/Advocate
Martha Perez serves as the Administrator/Vice President of Haven of Our Lady of Peace. She began her healthcare career in 1992, the start of 28 years in the field of long-term care – her purpose and passion in life.
Feb 02, 2021
Patient Stories
Halene O’Connell
What is life after COVID-19 like? For a Milton teen, it’s a long journey from the coma she was in in the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. Now recovering at home, Halene O’Connell, 16, is fighting the after-effects of the virus.
Dec 29, 2020
Donor Stories
People Helping People
Chris Rutledge has served as the Executive Officer/President of Gulf Winds Credit Union since 2002. Over the years, as he watched the community grow, he used his leadership skills to grow Gulf Winds: From $200M and 29,000 members to over $780M and 70,000 members currently.
Dec 01, 2020
Donor Stories
In the Business of Giving Back
When Tracy Sheehan’s family settled in Pensacola after her husband Heath retired from the military, she was presented with the opportunity to open a business and decided to go for it. She is a now the proud proprietor of Ninth Avenue Nutrition: A protein smoothie, high energy tea, and healthy juice bar located in Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital.
Nov 17, 2020
Donor Stories
Panda Express is a bear hug to our community
The American Chinese restaurant in Pensacola continues to support Children’s Miracle Network The next time you think about where to eat, consider a restaurant that makes a difference. Located less than a mile from the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart, Panda Express has been a proud partner of the Children’s Miracle Network since 2007, donating more than $86 million to its hospitals to date.
Nov 03, 2020
Donor Stories
Overseer of Care for the Kids
Will Condon serves as President of the new Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart, as he continues his successful journey of working for Ascension Sacred Heart. That career began some ten years ago when he was hired as a Marketing Outreach Coordinator. During his tenure at Ascension Sacred Heart, he earned his master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from University of West Florida. He also progressed in considerable responsibility becoming the Chief Marketing Officer of Ascension Florida. Now, his mission is concentrated on the kids. “But I would not be here without the help of great mentors along the way,” Will says, crediting Dickie Appleyard, Susan Davis, and Henry Stovall.
Oct 20, 2020
Patient Stories
Tears, Prayers and Grace
Haylee and David Huffman have deep roots on the Emerald Coast. They met in Destin, Haylee’s home town, and were married in Santa Rosa Beach eleven years ago. There, deeply committed to serving God, they “planted” a church that David currently pastors. Their three children were born at Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast: Asher (6), Hattie (3), and John Levi. This is John Levi’s ‘story from the heart.’
Oct 06, 2020
Donor Stories
Carol Carlan: A Leader Dedicated to Enriching Her Community
Carol Carlan has forged a career path of leadership success: She’s held many titles in the business world, achieved extraordinary goals, and merited wide-spread recognition for her talents. Through it all, her guidepost has been her passion for giving back to the community, for helping others.
Sep 22, 2020
Donor Stories
Thank you to our Community
The past several months have been a time of fear and uncertainty. However, it is during these times that we see the community come together the most. This generosity and commitment truly shows how much our community cares for one another.
Sep 01, 2020
Donor Stories
A Visionary Who Gifted The Emerald Coast
It was Frank Flautt’s vision that helped pioneer the Emerald Coast as a premier resort area. In 1982, he acquired beachside property in the Sandestin Resort that had limited development, which grew into the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa. The hotel was originally developed as a 400-unit condominium structure. It was only In 1998, after 200 rooms and additional amenities were added, that it became a hotel in its current form.
Aug 18, 2020
Patient Stories
Elliot Rowell: We see most clearly through the heart
Running through the Mother Seton Garden playground at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart, you’d never know 6-year-old Elliot Rowell was once a patient here.
Aug 04, 2020
Donor Stories
Touch A Truck
Kids love trucks. Knowing that, Greg Micklos, Franchisee, and Veronica Kramer, Marketing Director, both of Two Men and a Truck, created a “Touch A Truck” event in Pensacola to raise funds for the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. It was Veronica’s way of saying “thank you” to the hospital for the care a friend’s young daughter received while fighting leukemia. During the event, children and their families could climb into a moving truck, fire truck, police car, construction trucks, the pediatric transport unit, and so much more!
Jul 30, 2020
Donor Stories
Credit Union for Kids
We thank the Northwest Florida Chapter League of Southeastern Credit Unions for hosting its 15th Annual Panhandle Charity Golf Invitational benefiting Studer Family Children’s Hospital, your local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Proceeds from the tournament will help build the Bear Family Foundation Pediatric Oncology Center for Hope, the region’s only Pediatric Oncology center. This facility will be equipped with 9 all-private rooms, a playroom, work out room, laundry room, and so much more. The completion of this facility would not be possible without the hard work and dedication from our credit union partners, who not only participate in the golf tournament, but fund raise year-round for the kids in our community.
Jul 28, 2020
Patient Stories
Dayaram Family
“All in God’s timing”: a surprise pregnancy leads to the surprise of their lives
Jul 21, 2020
Donor Stories
Front and Center in the Community
Helping to address the needs of his community is second nature to Cory Fosdyck. “My life purpose,” he will tell you, “is to serve people and solve problems.” Besides acting as Resident Director of the Merrill Lynch Wealth Management office in Destin, he lends considerable energy and expertise to local charitable causes.
Jul 14, 2020
Donor Stories
Chris Sause – Speaking from Experience
Chris Sause has firsthand understanding of just how valuable Ascension Sacred Heart is to the communities it serves. His insight is both personal, as a father whose son Karsten survived a critical illness; and professional, as a realtor who has witnessed the tremendous growth and accompanying needs of the region.
Jun 30, 2020
Donor Stories
The Mall Ball Story
When Sue Martin resigned as Executive Director of Mardi Gras Pensacola more than 25 years ago, she had an idea to create an event to benefit the Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital. The first of its kind, the black-tie ball would be affordable and open to the public, regardless of krewe affiliation.
Jun 16, 2020
Donor Stories
Roger Hall: A Legend in His Own Right
Roger Hall is President of Ascension Florida’s Sacred Heart Hospitals on the Emerald Coast and on the Gulf. He possesses more than 30 years’ experience in the field of healthcare. He was instrumental in the development of Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast, forging strong partnerships with the community and physicians that have made the Ascension facility highly successful. He is greatly respected for his leadership and much beloved throughout the region.
Jun 02, 2020
Donor Stories
Tom VanOsdol
Leading Ascension Florida To Its Future
May 19, 2020
Donor Stories
John Russell: Service in Support of the Children
John Russell serves as president of the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), one of the top wine auction foundations in the country and the largest non-profit fundraising organization on Florida’s Emerald Coast.
May 12, 2020
Donor Stories
Standing (and dancing) for those who cannot
It’s kids helping kids at UWF Dance Marathon
May 05, 2020
Patient Stories
Ashton Welborn: childhood cancer patient to pediatric nurse
Ashton Welborn’s mother knew something was wrong with her second-grader. When the always-hungry little girl stopped eating and became pale and weak, she took her to the pediatrician. Blood work determined it was mono, but her doctor wanted a second look at the labs.
Apr 07, 2020
Donor Stories
Kendall Frazee: Helping Families Heal After Pregnancy and Infant Loss
Kendall Frazee was only three years old when her mother suffered a miscarriage. She lost a brother she would never meet, but Jackson lives on through his sister’s good work.
Mar 03, 2020
Patient Stories
Logan Allen: Our Smallest Miracle
At six months pregnant, Talisa Jackson was faced with every expectant mother’s worst nightmare.
Feb 24, 2020
Donor Stories
Advocates for the Children
The Holman Law firm, which is the father and son team of Stephen T. and Justin T. Holman, is dedicated to the principle that “The BEST parent is BOTH parents.” As experienced litigators who choose to be primarily involved in family law cases, their firm concentrates on outcomes that ensure children are able to interact with both mother and father. At one time, it was customary that the mother was automatically granted custody; but this is no longer the norm.
Feb 18, 2020
Patient Stories
Miles Wright
Miles Wright: “My cancer helped me appreciate the small things.”
Feb 04, 2020
Donor Stories
Extra Life
It’s All ‘Fun and Games’ at This Fundraiser
Jan 17, 2020
Donor Stories
Giving Thanks
Steve Clark serves as a Sacred Heart Foundation board member as a way of giving thanks. He goes above and beyond to support The Children’s Hospital because both of his daughters “literally owe their lives to Sacred Heart.”
Dec 24, 2019
Patient Stories
A Battle Bravely Fought
Today Katie Mitchell is in a good place. Eight years old, she is in the third grade and if you didn’t know what she has been through, you would never guess.
Dec 10, 2019
News & Updates
25th Annual Cordova Mall Ball
Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler!
Dec 03, 2019
Donor Stories
Nina Fritz
A Lifetime of ‘Feeding the Soul’
Nov 05, 2019
Patient Stories
Carter Harrison
So Much More Than A Syndrome
Oct 08, 2019
News & Updates
2019 Annual Radiothon
Give the gift of a miracle! Tune in to Cat Country 98.7, NewsRadio 92.3, ESPN Pensacola, and 1330 WEBY on August 16th from 5 a.m. until 7 p.m. or stop by the Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital, your local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals to hear stories of bravery and inspiration from local children and families that have benefited from the programs and life-saving equipment at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital. This 14-hour live broadcast will help raise funds for the new Bear Family Foundation Pediatric Oncology Center For Hope.
Jul 29, 2019
Patient Stories
Sophia’s Story
How a new NICU will make a big difference for our smallest patients
Jul 24, 2019
Donor Stories
Dr. John B. Webb – A Patriarch Extraordinaire
Dr. John B. Webb was a man of many and varied accomplishments; but his daughter Dr. Judy Ring will tell you that his greatest achievement – without a doubt – was his role as a father. It was defined by unconditional love and a lifestyle that always put his family at the forefront of all he did.
Jul 16, 2019
Donor Stories
Mallory Studer
“Sacred Heart Has My Heart”
Jul 02, 2019
Donor Stories
Heroes for Hope
During the Pensacon event in February 2019, three professional video gamers showed their support for the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart by encouraging their followers to donate money through the Heroes for Hope Charity Stream. Jason Thomson, head of logistics for Pensacon, partnered with popular Twitch streamers James Werk, GSXR Clyde and Gernader Jake to put on the event, which raised $34,000 this year – for a grand total of $57,000 donated to the Children’s Hospital since 2017. Thomson, who co-founded the Heroes for Hope Charity Stream, has been gaming his entire life. (He started playing an Atari racing game on an old black and white TV.) But when streaming came along, he says he discovered the meaning of community.
Jun 18, 2019
Patient Stories
Jabyn Livingston – Letting Hope Arise
One special boy’s legacy creates a haven for kids with special needs
Jun 04, 2019
Donor Stories
Margaret Berrisford
Margaret Berrisford has lived 100 years, and she’s spent 22 of them volunteering at the Haven of Our Lady of Peace operated by Sacred Heart. It all started when her husband was in the hospital with cancer. It was summertime, and it was very hot. “Dr. Prevatt would tell me to go home and rest,” Margaret recalls. “But I told him, if I leave I lose my parking space, and I’m really more comfortable staying in this cool building, walking around and seeing what all is going on.”
May 07, 2019
News & Updates
Join us for the Inaugural Emerald Ball
Apr 30, 2019
Patient Stories
Abigail Fisher
Our 2019 Children’s Miracle Network Hospital Hero
Apr 16, 2019
News & Updates
Sacred Heart Celebrates New Children’s Hospital
Sacred Heart marked 50 years as Northwest Florida’s only children’s hospital by hosting a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony today for its new four-story, $85 million facility. With 126 beds, Studer Family Children’s Hospital will increase access to specialized pediatric care and put multiple services in one convenient location at 1 Bubba Watson Drive on Sacred Heart’s Pensacola campus. Patient care at the facility is scheduled to begin in May.
Apr 11, 2019
Donor Stories
Honoring the Bear Family Foundation
The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart announced today a $1.75 million donation from the Bear Family Foundation towards the new four-story children’s hospital on Sacred Heart’s Pensacola campus. This represents the largest single gift the Bear Family Foundation has given in its 17-year history.
Apr 09, 2019
News & Updates
2019 Cordova Mall Ball
Thank you for another success year!
Apr 02, 2019
News & Updates
Excellence in Philanthropy
Mar 26, 2019
Donor Stories
Autumn Beck Blackledge – Gifted and Giving
Born and raised in Pensacola, Autumn Beck Blackledge comes by her achievements and her commitment to the Sacred Heart Foundation by way of her upbringing. “I won the lottery on parents, “ she says. “They were loving and just remarkable in everything they did for me and my brother Justin. And they taught that us that you give your talents, you give your time, you give your treasure.”
Mar 19, 2019
Donor Stories
Impact 100 Pensacola Bay Area
Making “Ruff” Days a Little Brighter for Hospitalized Children
Mar 05, 2019
Donor Stories
Ric and Alan Nickelsen
Giving Forward to the Community
Feb 19, 2019
News & Updates
Cindi Bonner Receives National Award for Childhood Cancer Research
Feb 14, 2019
Donor Stories
The Sansing Family
A LEGACY FUELED BY WORK, ACHIEVEMENT AND FAITH
Feb 05, 2019
News & Updates
21st Annual ECUA Employee Golf Tournament
The 21st Annual ECUA Employee Golf Tournament will be held at Stonebrook Golf Club on Friday, April 26, 2019 at 1:00pm. The first 36 sponsored teams paid will secure a spot in the tournament. Range balls will be provided along with food and beverages. There will be door prices and awards.
Feb 01, 2019
News & Updates
2019 Cordova Mall Ball
Laissez les bons temps rouler!
Jan 01, 2019
Donor Stories
Preemie Cup “Thank You”
A Day of Play on the Water
Dec 25, 2018
Patient Stories
Blake’s Story
Visiting with us during a chemotherapy infusion, you would never know the battles 18-year-old Blake McComas and his family have endured. Three years after losing his older brother to cancer, Blake was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia when he was just 11. Today, he’s still fighting, but it’s his laughter – not his tears – that fills the halls of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Dec 18, 2018
Donor Stories
Volunteer Spotlight: Robert Hinton of Navy Federal Credit Union
As long as he can remember, Robert Hinton has wanted to be part of a group that gives back. Together with every employer and on his own, he has found a way to support local organizations with his time, talents and treasures.
Dec 18, 2018
News & Updates
Reflection on I-10 Bus Crash
A Community of Helpers
Dec 11, 2018
Patient Stories
Harris Family
Father recounts day Sacred Heart Hospital
Dec 04, 2018
Patient Stories
LiAna Patterson
LiAna’s Story
Nov 26, 2018
Patient Stories
Sprout & Katie Have an MRI
What do you do when your child is so terrified by the thought of the hospital that she won’t get out of the car? You enlist the help of Sprout the Service Dog at Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Sep 28, 2018
Donor Stories
The Power of E3 Conference
During the past five years, the Power of E3 Conference for women ages 55+ has raised a total of $32,000 to support women in need of healthcare. Through Sacred Heart Health System’s Women’s Care Center in Pensacola, women in need are identified to qualify for financial support from these funds to obtain lifesaving health screenings including mammograms and pap smears.
Sep 04, 2018
Donor Stories
Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation
More than 250 people gathered for the 13th Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation check presentation yesterday in Santa Rosa Beach. This year’s auction produced record-breaking fundraising numbers, and the Foundation was excited to present funding to 15 local children’s charities. Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast in Miramar Beach received a check for $225,000 to support the future operation of a 10-bed Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
Sep 04, 2018
Patient Stories
Ripley Vignes
Chloe and Beau Vignes thought their pregnancy was fairly normal, until Chloe’s 30-week prenatal check-up, when they found out their son – Baby Ripley – was not on track for growth. Two weeks later, at the 32-week appointment, Chloe’s doctor performed an ultrasound and announced Chloe needed to be admitted right away. Baby Ripley was not stable, his heartbeat was not strong, and the doctor was concerned about his lung development. That very night, Chloe’s doctors decided she needed an emergency C-section. Ripley was born weighing only 2 lbs., 10 oz. and 15 inches long.
Aug 06, 2018
Patient Stories
Eli Bryant
Elijah Bryant is a force to be reckoned with. In just 7 years of life, he’s bravely survived PICU, chemotherapy (twice), a bone marrow operation, radiation, 14 general anesthetics, 4 central lines, countless CT scans and whole months of his young life a full-time occupant of the hospital bed that he needed to call home.
Jul 30, 2018
Patient Stories
Fisher Kariher
The Kariher family of Gulf Breeze is just one of many families who have learned that you don’t have to look far for the best pediatric medical care. After searching the U.S. for the best physician to operate on her son’s brain tumor, Jules discovered that the best care was right in her own backyard at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Jul 30, 2018
Patient Stories
Lauren Schlossberg
When Ashley Schlossberg of Pensacola was 24 weeks pregnant, she was diagnosed with a severe case of preeclampsia, a condition that causes the expectant mother’s blood pressure to rise and can be fatal to both mother and baby. Ashley was told she would need to have a Cesarean section. At 25 weeks, Lauren was born weighing 1 lb., 5 oz. and measuring just 12-1/2” long. “Think of a 20 oz. can of Coca-Cola,” says Ashley to describe how Lauren appeared at birth.
Jul 30, 2018
Patient Stories
Shae Burleson
Shae Burleson is a happy 9-year-old girl. You’d never know that a year ago, she spent 118 days in The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. On September 23, 2016, Shae was in a terrible car accident while heading home from school. In the ambulance, paramedics told her to try to stay awake. The last thing she remembers is being wheeled into the hospital. Twenty-three days later, Shae woke up, ‘connected to a bunch of stuff.’ Over the next four months, her doctors, nurses and volunteers became like family. Shae would spend Halloween and Thanksgiving in the hospital, undergoing a total of 8 surgeries to repair the extensive damage caused by the accident. “I had a feeding tube, an ostomy, my belly open … it was such a relief to have all that gone,” Shae says. “Now, I just have my scars.” And a wonderful outlook on life. Shae’s aunt, Sharon, who works at Sacred Heart as a respiratory therapist, was by her side through it all. “These doctors and nurses really affect these kids’ lives,” Sharon says. “Coming from a tough background, she wants to grow up and take care of babies because of what she’s seen.” Sharon admits she, too, has changed because of what she witnessed. “Seeing the other side, I was amazed,” she says.
Jul 30, 2018
Patient Stories
A Home Away From Home
For Jessica Stevens and Matt Peacock, the doctors, nurses and staff at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart became a part of their family during the scariest time of their lives. Having a child in the NICU can be an emotional rollercoaster. “Some days you take one step forward only to take 12 back,” Jessica says.
Jan 19, 2018
News & Updates
On Track for 2019 Opening
Construction of the new Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart is on schedule, with the new four-story facility expected to open in the spring of 2019 on Sacred Heart’s Pensacola campus. Sacred Heart is part of Ascension, the largest non-profit health system in the U.S. and the world’s largest Catholic health system.
Jan 09, 2018
Donor Stories
Bubba Watson Drive New Children’s Hospital Address
The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart has a new official address recognizing local professional golfer Bubba Watson — 1 Bubba Watson Drive.
Jan 08, 2018
Donor Stories
Sansing Family Donates Half-Million to Children’s Hospital
More local children will be able to receive specialized pediatric healthcare close to home, thanks to a half-million dollar donation from the Sansing family to The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Dec 14, 2017
News & Updates
Parents’ Christmas Wish List
Pensacola, Fla. — It’s every parent’s nightmare: not being able to cross off the must-have toy from their child’s Christmas list. Fortunately, the toys that kindle creativity and kick-start imagination are often overlooked and sitting on store shelves.
Dec 08, 2017
News & Updates
Where Big Things Happen From Small Beginnings
More local children will be able to receive specialized pediatric healthcare close to home, thanks to a half-million dollar donation from the Sansing family to The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Dec 02, 2017
Donor Stories
Thank You Walmart and Sam’s Club for 30 Years of Miracles!
Locally, more than $242,900 was raised during the seven week campaign! Thank you all for helping kids live better!
Nov 23, 2017
News & Updates
23rd Annual Cordova Mall Ball
Tickets for the 2018 Cordova Mall Ball are now available for purchase! Northwest Florida’s largest Mardi Gras ball, the 23rd Annual Cordova Mall Ball will be held Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018, from 8 p.m. to midnight at Cordova Mall in Pensacola to benefit sick and injured children at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. The event is coordinated by the Krewe of Les Petits Enfants (Order of the Small Children) and presented by Wendy’s.
Nov 03, 2017
Donor Stories
Preemie Cup Supports SH NICU
A total of $93,094 was raised during the 2017 Preemie Cup events held to benefit the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. The NICU provides care to more than 1,000 premature, sick and injured infants from throughout Northwest Florida.
Jul 12, 2017
Patient Stories
Baby Valor: One of Many Sweet Reasons for the Cordova Mall Ball
Baby Valor: One of Many Sweet Reasons for the Cordova Mall Ball Baby-boy Valor Ervin made his entrance into the world last July in a smooth delivery following his mother’s healthy, full-term pregnancy. But the first week of his life was nothing short of eventful.
Dec 20, 2016
Patient Stories
Joyful, Creative and Determined
When the Whitworth family moved to Panama City Beach, son Will was three years old, and in most respects a typical, active youngster with a love of the outdoors and a far-reaching interest in animals. However, while he was quite verbal, it was evident that he was experiencing significant difficulty with his speaking skills. Mom Amanda had to interpret for others what he was trying to say because, although she understood him, no one else could.
Jan 03, 2023
Patient Stories
Helping Autistic Children Navigate Life
Four year-old Ja’Terrion was completely non-verbal when he was diagnosed and became a patient at the Autism Center of The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. However, this early-age intervention was to make a huge difference in his life. As a result of the speech therapy he received, he went from not saying anything to actually using words. Today, two years later, Ja’Terrion is enrolled in kindergarten and continuing to make progress in his communication skills.
Nov 15, 2022
Patient Stories
Stephanie Kemp: Breast Cancer Survivor Finds Her Calling
Ascension Sacred Heart Breast Care Nurse Navigator Stephanie Kemp wears many hats as she guides patients through their breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery: she’s an educator, cheerleader, social worker, counselor and advocate. And just like the patients she interacts with daily, she’s also a breast cancer survivor.
Oct 13, 2022
Sam Poe
Six months ago, Gina Poe's 14-year-old, Sam, started experiencing fever, night sweats, and swollen lymph nodes in his neck. Initially, their pediatrician thought Sam had an infection, so he prescribed antibiotics. When swelling continued for several months, they were referred to a specialist who ordered further tests and imaging.
Sep 20, 2022
Patient Stories
Katie Mitchell To Serve as Children’s Miracle Network® Champion
Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation is pleased to announce that Katie Mitchell has been chosen as our 2022 Children’s Miracle Network® (CMN) Champion, advocating for member hospital Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. CMN is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds and community support for 170 children’s hospitals throughout North America. Each year, CMN hospitals are invited to submit the story of a child who has been treated in their facility. This child will serve as a CMN ambassador and face of the hospital for partner campaigns and various events that generate donations. One hundred percent of the donations stays in our local area to support pediatric treatments and healthcare services, medical equipment and philanthropic care.
Apr 05, 2022
Donor Stories
For the Little Ones, Featuring the Little Ones
Autumn and Peyton Blackledge are inaugural chairpersons of the official Krewe of Les Petites Enfants (Order of the Small Children), named in honor of those whose needs it will help support. With an initial goal of 50 participants, the krewe’s membership fee will go towards the purchase of a neonatal transport unit for Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart.
Jan 05, 2022
Donor Stories
Giving Back to the Community They Serve
Dave and Mary Hoxeng built their award-winning, local radio team together, a joint venture of highly distinctive skill-sets. While owning a radio station was a lifelong dream of Dave’s, it took a lot of patience and due diligence to make it happen. He applied in 1984 for a new radio license in Pensacola, which turned out to be a very long process, about fifteen years actually. In 2002, Dave and Mary moved to this area to start up their first radio station from scratch: CatCountry 98.7. Then they got the opportunity to purchase a run-down station in Atmore that eventually became NewsRadio 1620 / 92.3. This was followed up with yet another acquisition, WEBY-ESPN 1330/99.1. Recently, they started Playlist 94.5 which plays Pensacola’s favorite hit music non-stop. Today, Mary is General and Sales Manager of all four stations, while Dave is CEO and self-described “catalyst.”
Jun 15, 2021
Donor Stories
Leading and Supporting the Ministry
Susan Cornejo is the Chief Operations Officer (COO) for Ascension Florida Gulf Coast Ministry Market. She was born at Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, but within a few years the family moved to Indiana. There, her father, a mechanical engineer, held a management position for International Harvester (later Navistar), and her mother was employed as a nurse.
Jun 01, 2021
News & Updates
Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Expands Pediatric Emergency Care
Families in Walton County and Destin in need of emergency care for their children now can find it closer to home. As of December 14, 2020, Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast (ASHEC) began offering expanded access to pediatric emergency care, closely supported by the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. This new partnership allows for more direct connections between the pediatric ER expansion in Miramar Beach, and the specialists at Children’s Hospital, the region’s only state-of- the-art facility dedicated to infants and children.
May 04, 2021
Donor Stories
Preserving the Past for a Brighter Future
Aaron Ball recalls sitting on the sunlit back porch of his great grandmother’s farmhouse as a young boy in Andalusia, Alabama, listening intently as the old family camcorder recorded her. His father asked the good-natured matriarch questions about her life lessons from difficult times, about her fondest memories and most meaningful family heirlooms. “Back porch interviews,” as Aaron calls them, are a primary technique he now uses to capture authentic and compelling stories as an archivist and communications’ consultant. He explains, “The term is personal archiving. It’s about capturing details that are meaningful to individuals and companies, organizing them, and preserving the best of your culture to inspire the next generation.”
Apr 20, 2021
News & Updates
Introducing Ascension Sacred Heart Bay’s Regional Clinical Education Center
For over 70 years, Ascension Sacred Heart Bay (ASHB) has been a pillar of the Panama City community and its environs. It was nearly destroyed when Hurricane Michael ravaged the Florida Panhandle in October 2018. Despite personal challenges, its heroic staff evacuated patients and provided emergency care throughout the storm and its aftermath.
Apr 06, 2021
Donor Stories
Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation
Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), recognized as the fifth largest charity wine auction in the U.S. by Wine Spectator, is pleased to announce the donation of $1.2 million to 16 children’s charities in Northwest Florida following its first virtual auction on August 22.
Mar 30, 2021
Donor Stories
Service Above Self
Kerry Anne Schultz was born in a small Nebraska town, the eldest of six children in a Catholic family whose parents were role models for hard work and heartfelt values. She and her siblings, at very young ages, were taught to be kind to others and help their neighbors. They were also encouraged to think “service above self”, which became Kerry Anne’s guiding life principle.
Mar 16, 2021
Donor Stories
Serving with Heart
The Volunteer Guild at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast is devoted to serving the community through substantial support of the hospital’s mission. The Guild is a Christ-centered organization with values that mirror those of the Daughters of Charity, founders of the original Sacred Heart Hospital. Their vision was to provide healthcare to all, with emphasis on the poor and most vulnerable. Guild volunteers consider it a privilege to help carry on this century-old ministry of hope and healing.
Mar 02, 2021
Donor Stories
Lauren Bonner: Artist & Advocate
Lauren Bonner was still in high school when she painted the mural that playfully leads the way into the new Bear Family Foundation Center For Hope at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Feb 16, 2021
Donor Stories
Long-Term Care Administrator/Advocate
Martha Perez serves as the Administrator/Vice President of Haven of Our Lady of Peace. She began her healthcare career in 1992, the start of 28 years in the field of long-term care – her purpose and passion in life.
Feb 02, 2021
Patient Stories
Halene O’Connell
What is life after COVID-19 like? For a Milton teen, it’s a long journey from the coma she was in in the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. Now recovering at home, Halene O’Connell, 16, is fighting the after-effects of the virus.
Dec 29, 2020
Donor Stories
People Helping People
Chris Rutledge has served as the Executive Officer/President of Gulf Winds Credit Union since 2002. Over the years, as he watched the community grow, he used his leadership skills to grow Gulf Winds: From $200M and 29,000 members to over $780M and 70,000 members currently.
Dec 01, 2020
Donor Stories
In the Business of Giving Back
When Tracy Sheehan’s family settled in Pensacola after her husband Heath retired from the military, she was presented with the opportunity to open a business and decided to go for it. She is a now the proud proprietor of Ninth Avenue Nutrition: A protein smoothie, high energy tea, and healthy juice bar located in Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital.
Nov 17, 2020
Donor Stories
Panda Express is a bear hug to our community
The American Chinese restaurant in Pensacola continues to support Children’s Miracle Network The next time you think about where to eat, consider a restaurant that makes a difference. Located less than a mile from the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart, Panda Express has been a proud partner of the Children’s Miracle Network since 2007, donating more than $86 million to its hospitals to date.
Nov 03, 2020
Donor Stories
Overseer of Care for the Kids
Will Condon serves as President of the new Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart, as he continues his successful journey of working for Ascension Sacred Heart. That career began some ten years ago when he was hired as a Marketing Outreach Coordinator. During his tenure at Ascension Sacred Heart, he earned his master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from University of West Florida. He also progressed in considerable responsibility becoming the Chief Marketing Officer of Ascension Florida. Now, his mission is concentrated on the kids. “But I would not be here without the help of great mentors along the way,” Will says, crediting Dickie Appleyard, Susan Davis, and Henry Stovall.
Oct 20, 2020
Patient Stories
Tears, Prayers and Grace
Haylee and David Huffman have deep roots on the Emerald Coast. They met in Destin, Haylee’s home town, and were married in Santa Rosa Beach eleven years ago. There, deeply committed to serving God, they “planted” a church that David currently pastors. Their three children were born at Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast: Asher (6), Hattie (3), and John Levi. This is John Levi’s ‘story from the heart.’
Oct 06, 2020
Donor Stories
Carol Carlan: A Leader Dedicated to Enriching Her Community
Carol Carlan has forged a career path of leadership success: She’s held many titles in the business world, achieved extraordinary goals, and merited wide-spread recognition for her talents. Through it all, her guidepost has been her passion for giving back to the community, for helping others.
Sep 22, 2020
Donor Stories
Thank you to our Community
The past several months have been a time of fear and uncertainty. However, it is during these times that we see the community come together the most. This generosity and commitment truly shows how much our community cares for one another.
Sep 01, 2020
Donor Stories
A Visionary Who Gifted The Emerald Coast
It was Frank Flautt’s vision that helped pioneer the Emerald Coast as a premier resort area. In 1982, he acquired beachside property in the Sandestin Resort that had limited development, which grew into the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa. The hotel was originally developed as a 400-unit condominium structure. It was only In 1998, after 200 rooms and additional amenities were added, that it became a hotel in its current form.
Aug 18, 2020
Patient Stories
Elliot Rowell: We see most clearly through the heart
Running through the Mother Seton Garden playground at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart, you’d never know 6-year-old Elliot Rowell was once a patient here.
Aug 04, 2020
Donor Stories
Touch A Truck
Kids love trucks. Knowing that, Greg Micklos, Franchisee, and Veronica Kramer, Marketing Director, both of Two Men and a Truck, created a “Touch A Truck” event in Pensacola to raise funds for the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. It was Veronica’s way of saying “thank you” to the hospital for the care a friend’s young daughter received while fighting leukemia. During the event, children and their families could climb into a moving truck, fire truck, police car, construction trucks, the pediatric transport unit, and so much more!
Jul 30, 2020
Donor Stories
Credit Union for Kids
We thank the Northwest Florida Chapter League of Southeastern Credit Unions for hosting its 15th Annual Panhandle Charity Golf Invitational benefiting Studer Family Children’s Hospital, your local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Proceeds from the tournament will help build the Bear Family Foundation Pediatric Oncology Center for Hope, the region’s only Pediatric Oncology center. This facility will be equipped with 9 all-private rooms, a playroom, work out room, laundry room, and so much more. The completion of this facility would not be possible without the hard work and dedication from our credit union partners, who not only participate in the golf tournament, but fund raise year-round for the kids in our community.
Jul 28, 2020
Patient Stories
Dayaram Family
“All in God’s timing”: a surprise pregnancy leads to the surprise of their lives
Jul 21, 2020
Donor Stories
Front and Center in the Community
Helping to address the needs of his community is second nature to Cory Fosdyck. “My life purpose,” he will tell you, “is to serve people and solve problems.” Besides acting as Resident Director of the Merrill Lynch Wealth Management office in Destin, he lends considerable energy and expertise to local charitable causes.
Jul 14, 2020
Donor Stories
Chris Sause – Speaking from Experience
Chris Sause has firsthand understanding of just how valuable Ascension Sacred Heart is to the communities it serves. His insight is both personal, as a father whose son Karsten survived a critical illness; and professional, as a realtor who has witnessed the tremendous growth and accompanying needs of the region.
Jun 30, 2020
Donor Stories
The Mall Ball Story
When Sue Martin resigned as Executive Director of Mardi Gras Pensacola more than 25 years ago, she had an idea to create an event to benefit the Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital. The first of its kind, the black-tie ball would be affordable and open to the public, regardless of krewe affiliation.
Jun 16, 2020
Donor Stories
Roger Hall: A Legend in His Own Right
Roger Hall is President of Ascension Florida’s Sacred Heart Hospitals on the Emerald Coast and on the Gulf. He possesses more than 30 years’ experience in the field of healthcare. He was instrumental in the development of Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast, forging strong partnerships with the community and physicians that have made the Ascension facility highly successful. He is greatly respected for his leadership and much beloved throughout the region.
Jun 02, 2020
Donor Stories
Tom VanOsdol
Leading Ascension Florida To Its Future
May 19, 2020
Donor Stories
John Russell: Service in Support of the Children
John Russell serves as president of the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), one of the top wine auction foundations in the country and the largest non-profit fundraising organization on Florida’s Emerald Coast.
May 12, 2020
Donor Stories
Standing (and dancing) for those who cannot
It’s kids helping kids at UWF Dance Marathon
May 05, 2020
Patient Stories
Ashton Welborn: childhood cancer patient to pediatric nurse
Ashton Welborn’s mother knew something was wrong with her second-grader. When the always-hungry little girl stopped eating and became pale and weak, she took her to the pediatrician. Blood work determined it was mono, but her doctor wanted a second look at the labs.
Apr 07, 2020
Donor Stories
Kendall Frazee: Helping Families Heal After Pregnancy and Infant Loss
Kendall Frazee was only three years old when her mother suffered a miscarriage. She lost a brother she would never meet, but Jackson lives on through his sister’s good work.
Mar 03, 2020
Patient Stories
Logan Allen: Our Smallest Miracle
At six months pregnant, Talisa Jackson was faced with every expectant mother’s worst nightmare.
Feb 24, 2020
Donor Stories
Advocates for the Children
The Holman Law firm, which is the father and son team of Stephen T. and Justin T. Holman, is dedicated to the principle that “The BEST parent is BOTH parents.” As experienced litigators who choose to be primarily involved in family law cases, their firm concentrates on outcomes that ensure children are able to interact with both mother and father. At one time, it was customary that the mother was automatically granted custody; but this is no longer the norm.
Feb 18, 2020
Patient Stories
Miles Wright
Miles Wright: “My cancer helped me appreciate the small things.”
Feb 04, 2020
Donor Stories
Extra Life
It’s All ‘Fun and Games’ at This Fundraiser
Jan 17, 2020
Donor Stories
Giving Thanks
Steve Clark serves as a Sacred Heart Foundation board member as a way of giving thanks. He goes above and beyond to support The Children’s Hospital because both of his daughters “literally owe their lives to Sacred Heart.”
Dec 24, 2019
Patient Stories
A Battle Bravely Fought
Today Katie Mitchell is in a good place. Eight years old, she is in the third grade and if you didn’t know what she has been through, you would never guess.
Dec 10, 2019
News & Updates
25th Annual Cordova Mall Ball
Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler!
Dec 03, 2019
Donor Stories
Nina Fritz
A Lifetime of ‘Feeding the Soul’
Nov 05, 2019
Patient Stories
Carter Harrison
So Much More Than A Syndrome
Oct 08, 2019
News & Updates
2019 Annual Radiothon
Give the gift of a miracle! Tune in to Cat Country 98.7, NewsRadio 92.3, ESPN Pensacola, and 1330 WEBY on August 16th from 5 a.m. until 7 p.m. or stop by the Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital, your local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals to hear stories of bravery and inspiration from local children and families that have benefited from the programs and life-saving equipment at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital. This 14-hour live broadcast will help raise funds for the new Bear Family Foundation Pediatric Oncology Center For Hope.
Jul 29, 2019
Patient Stories
Sophia’s Story
How a new NICU will make a big difference for our smallest patients
Jul 24, 2019
Donor Stories
Dr. John B. Webb – A Patriarch Extraordinaire
Dr. John B. Webb was a man of many and varied accomplishments; but his daughter Dr. Judy Ring will tell you that his greatest achievement – without a doubt – was his role as a father. It was defined by unconditional love and a lifestyle that always put his family at the forefront of all he did.
Jul 16, 2019
Donor Stories
Mallory Studer
“Sacred Heart Has My Heart”
Jul 02, 2019
Donor Stories
Heroes for Hope
During the Pensacon event in February 2019, three professional video gamers showed their support for the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart by encouraging their followers to donate money through the Heroes for Hope Charity Stream. Jason Thomson, head of logistics for Pensacon, partnered with popular Twitch streamers James Werk, GSXR Clyde and Gernader Jake to put on the event, which raised $34,000 this year – for a grand total of $57,000 donated to the Children’s Hospital since 2017. Thomson, who co-founded the Heroes for Hope Charity Stream, has been gaming his entire life. (He started playing an Atari racing game on an old black and white TV.) But when streaming came along, he says he discovered the meaning of community.
Jun 18, 2019
Patient Stories
Jabyn Livingston – Letting Hope Arise
One special boy’s legacy creates a haven for kids with special needs
Jun 04, 2019
Donor Stories
Margaret Berrisford
Margaret Berrisford has lived 100 years, and she’s spent 22 of them volunteering at the Haven of Our Lady of Peace operated by Sacred Heart. It all started when her husband was in the hospital with cancer. It was summertime, and it was very hot. “Dr. Prevatt would tell me to go home and rest,” Margaret recalls. “But I told him, if I leave I lose my parking space, and I’m really more comfortable staying in this cool building, walking around and seeing what all is going on.”
May 07, 2019
News & Updates
Join us for the Inaugural Emerald Ball
Apr 30, 2019
Patient Stories
Abigail Fisher
Our 2019 Children’s Miracle Network Hospital Hero
Apr 16, 2019
News & Updates
Sacred Heart Celebrates New Children’s Hospital
Sacred Heart marked 50 years as Northwest Florida’s only children’s hospital by hosting a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony today for its new four-story, $85 million facility. With 126 beds, Studer Family Children’s Hospital will increase access to specialized pediatric care and put multiple services in one convenient location at 1 Bubba Watson Drive on Sacred Heart’s Pensacola campus. Patient care at the facility is scheduled to begin in May.
Apr 11, 2019
Donor Stories
Honoring the Bear Family Foundation
The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart announced today a $1.75 million donation from the Bear Family Foundation towards the new four-story children’s hospital on Sacred Heart’s Pensacola campus. This represents the largest single gift the Bear Family Foundation has given in its 17-year history.
Apr 09, 2019
News & Updates
2019 Cordova Mall Ball
Thank you for another success year!
Apr 02, 2019
News & Updates
Excellence in Philanthropy
Mar 26, 2019
Donor Stories
Autumn Beck Blackledge – Gifted and Giving
Born and raised in Pensacola, Autumn Beck Blackledge comes by her achievements and her commitment to the Sacred Heart Foundation by way of her upbringing. “I won the lottery on parents, “ she says. “They were loving and just remarkable in everything they did for me and my brother Justin. And they taught that us that you give your talents, you give your time, you give your treasure.”
Mar 19, 2019
Donor Stories
Impact 100 Pensacola Bay Area
Making “Ruff” Days a Little Brighter for Hospitalized Children
Mar 05, 2019
Donor Stories
Ric and Alan Nickelsen
Giving Forward to the Community
Feb 19, 2019
News & Updates
Cindi Bonner Receives National Award for Childhood Cancer Research
Feb 14, 2019
Donor Stories
The Sansing Family
A LEGACY FUELED BY WORK, ACHIEVEMENT AND FAITH
Feb 05, 2019
News & Updates
21st Annual ECUA Employee Golf Tournament
The 21st Annual ECUA Employee Golf Tournament will be held at Stonebrook Golf Club on Friday, April 26, 2019 at 1:00pm. The first 36 sponsored teams paid will secure a spot in the tournament. Range balls will be provided along with food and beverages. There will be door prices and awards.
Feb 01, 2019
News & Updates
2019 Cordova Mall Ball
Laissez les bons temps rouler!
Jan 01, 2019
Donor Stories
Preemie Cup “Thank You”
A Day of Play on the Water
Dec 25, 2018
Patient Stories
Blake’s Story
Visiting with us during a chemotherapy infusion, you would never know the battles 18-year-old Blake McComas and his family have endured. Three years after losing his older brother to cancer, Blake was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia when he was just 11. Today, he’s still fighting, but it’s his laughter – not his tears – that fills the halls of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Dec 18, 2018
Donor Stories
Volunteer Spotlight: Robert Hinton of Navy Federal Credit Union
As long as he can remember, Robert Hinton has wanted to be part of a group that gives back. Together with every employer and on his own, he has found a way to support local organizations with his time, talents and treasures.
Dec 18, 2018
News & Updates
Reflection on I-10 Bus Crash
A Community of Helpers
Dec 11, 2018
Patient Stories
Harris Family
Father recounts day Sacred Heart Hospital
Dec 04, 2018
Patient Stories
LiAna Patterson
LiAna’s Story
Nov 26, 2018
Patient Stories
Sprout & Katie Have an MRI
What do you do when your child is so terrified by the thought of the hospital that she won’t get out of the car? You enlist the help of Sprout the Service Dog at Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Sep 28, 2018
Donor Stories
The Power of E3 Conference
During the past five years, the Power of E3 Conference for women ages 55+ has raised a total of $32,000 to support women in need of healthcare. Through Sacred Heart Health System’s Women’s Care Center in Pensacola, women in need are identified to qualify for financial support from these funds to obtain lifesaving health screenings including mammograms and pap smears.
Sep 04, 2018
Donor Stories
Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation
More than 250 people gathered for the 13th Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation check presentation yesterday in Santa Rosa Beach. This year’s auction produced record-breaking fundraising numbers, and the Foundation was excited to present funding to 15 local children’s charities. Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast in Miramar Beach received a check for $225,000 to support the future operation of a 10-bed Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
Sep 04, 2018
Patient Stories
Ripley Vignes
Chloe and Beau Vignes thought their pregnancy was fairly normal, until Chloe’s 30-week prenatal check-up, when they found out their son – Baby Ripley – was not on track for growth. Two weeks later, at the 32-week appointment, Chloe’s doctor performed an ultrasound and announced Chloe needed to be admitted right away. Baby Ripley was not stable, his heartbeat was not strong, and the doctor was concerned about his lung development. That very night, Chloe’s doctors decided she needed an emergency C-section. Ripley was born weighing only 2 lbs., 10 oz. and 15 inches long.
Aug 06, 2018
Patient Stories
Eli Bryant
Elijah Bryant is a force to be reckoned with. In just 7 years of life, he’s bravely survived PICU, chemotherapy (twice), a bone marrow operation, radiation, 14 general anesthetics, 4 central lines, countless CT scans and whole months of his young life a full-time occupant of the hospital bed that he needed to call home.
Jul 30, 2018
Patient Stories
Fisher Kariher
The Kariher family of Gulf Breeze is just one of many families who have learned that you don’t have to look far for the best pediatric medical care. After searching the U.S. for the best physician to operate on her son’s brain tumor, Jules discovered that the best care was right in her own backyard at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Jul 30, 2018
Patient Stories
Lauren Schlossberg
When Ashley Schlossberg of Pensacola was 24 weeks pregnant, she was diagnosed with a severe case of preeclampsia, a condition that causes the expectant mother’s blood pressure to rise and can be fatal to both mother and baby. Ashley was told she would need to have a Cesarean section. At 25 weeks, Lauren was born weighing 1 lb., 5 oz. and measuring just 12-1/2” long. “Think of a 20 oz. can of Coca-Cola,” says Ashley to describe how Lauren appeared at birth.
Jul 30, 2018
Patient Stories
Shae Burleson
Shae Burleson is a happy 9-year-old girl. You’d never know that a year ago, she spent 118 days in The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. On September 23, 2016, Shae was in a terrible car accident while heading home from school. In the ambulance, paramedics told her to try to stay awake. The last thing she remembers is being wheeled into the hospital. Twenty-three days later, Shae woke up, ‘connected to a bunch of stuff.’ Over the next four months, her doctors, nurses and volunteers became like family. Shae would spend Halloween and Thanksgiving in the hospital, undergoing a total of 8 surgeries to repair the extensive damage caused by the accident. “I had a feeding tube, an ostomy, my belly open … it was such a relief to have all that gone,” Shae says. “Now, I just have my scars.” And a wonderful outlook on life. Shae’s aunt, Sharon, who works at Sacred Heart as a respiratory therapist, was by her side through it all. “These doctors and nurses really affect these kids’ lives,” Sharon says. “Coming from a tough background, she wants to grow up and take care of babies because of what she’s seen.” Sharon admits she, too, has changed because of what she witnessed. “Seeing the other side, I was amazed,” she says.
Jul 30, 2018
Patient Stories
A Home Away From Home
For Jessica Stevens and Matt Peacock, the doctors, nurses and staff at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart became a part of their family during the scariest time of their lives. Having a child in the NICU can be an emotional rollercoaster. “Some days you take one step forward only to take 12 back,” Jessica says.
Jan 19, 2018
News & Updates
On Track for 2019 Opening
Construction of the new Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart is on schedule, with the new four-story facility expected to open in the spring of 2019 on Sacred Heart’s Pensacola campus. Sacred Heart is part of Ascension, the largest non-profit health system in the U.S. and the world’s largest Catholic health system.
Jan 09, 2018
Donor Stories
Bubba Watson Drive New Children’s Hospital Address
The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart has a new official address recognizing local professional golfer Bubba Watson — 1 Bubba Watson Drive.
Jan 08, 2018
Donor Stories
Sansing Family Donates Half-Million to Children’s Hospital
More local children will be able to receive specialized pediatric healthcare close to home, thanks to a half-million dollar donation from the Sansing family to The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Dec 14, 2017
News & Updates
Parents’ Christmas Wish List
Pensacola, Fla. — It’s every parent’s nightmare: not being able to cross off the must-have toy from their child’s Christmas list. Fortunately, the toys that kindle creativity and kick-start imagination are often overlooked and sitting on store shelves.
Dec 08, 2017
News & Updates
Where Big Things Happen From Small Beginnings
More local children will be able to receive specialized pediatric healthcare close to home, thanks to a half-million dollar donation from the Sansing family to The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.
Dec 02, 2017
Donor Stories
Thank You Walmart and Sam’s Club for 30 Years of Miracles!
Locally, more than $242,900 was raised during the seven week campaign! Thank you all for helping kids live better!
Nov 23, 2017
News & Updates
23rd Annual Cordova Mall Ball
Tickets for the 2018 Cordova Mall Ball are now available for purchase! Northwest Florida’s largest Mardi Gras ball, the 23rd Annual Cordova Mall Ball will be held Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018, from 8 p.m. to midnight at Cordova Mall in Pensacola to benefit sick and injured children at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. The event is coordinated by the Krewe of Les Petits Enfants (Order of the Small Children) and presented by Wendy’s.
Nov 03, 2017
Donor Stories
Preemie Cup Supports SH NICU
A total of $93,094 was raised during the 2017 Preemie Cup events held to benefit the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. The NICU provides care to more than 1,000 premature, sick and injured infants from throughout Northwest Florida.
Jul 12, 2017
Patient Stories
Baby Valor: One of Many Sweet Reasons for the Cordova Mall Ball
Baby Valor: One of Many Sweet Reasons for the Cordova Mall Ball Baby-boy Valor Ervin made his entrance into the world last July in a smooth delivery following his mother’s healthy, full-term pregnancy. But the first week of his life was nothing short of eventful.