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Together, We Transform Lives
Impact of Philanthropy Because of your generosity, we are making a lasting impact.
Cleveland Clinic Children’s is dedicated to providing world-class care, groundbreaking research and life-changing treatments for children facing medical challenges. Philanthropy fuels our ability to deliver innovative care and ensure that every child has access to the best possible treatment—because every child deserves a future full of hope.
Meet the Cleveland Clinic Children’s
Every child has a story that deserves to be celebrated. The Children’s Rock Stars program highlights young patients whose strength, resilience, and spirit inspire us all. Through their journeys, we see the impact of world-class care and the power of community support. Here, you’ll meet the incredible kids who are at the heart of this program. Their stories remind us why we give, why we come together, and why every act of generosity makes a difference.
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Research Advancements
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Facility Dog Visits
100 %
Financial Assistance
500 +
Neonatal Care
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The Impact of Philanthropy
10-year-old Has father-daughter dance while waiting for heart at Cleveland Clinic
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Cleveland Clinic Children’s Ranks Among the Nation’s Best Children’s Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report
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Since 2023, every neonatal procedure at Cleveland Clinic Children’s has been performed using minimally invasive surgery — reducing pain, improving recovery times and giving our tiniest patients the gentlest start possible. Philanthropy enables our surgeons to stay at the forefront of innovative techniques and remain a destination for world-class care.
100% Neonatal Care
500+ Families Assisted
The Wendel Family Dogs for Joy program has become a beloved part of Cleveland Clinic Children’s. This initiative is supported through philanthropy, which allows our canine caregivers—Holiday, Scully, and Trotter—to enhance the well-being and sense of normalcy for children receiving inpatient and outpatient care.
Annually, more than $3 million is directed to advance innovative pediatric research with the goal of transforming care. Fostering fresh ideas strengthens the future of medical science and benefits the broader research community.
Each year, more than 500 families receive vital financial assistance during challenging times. This support, made possible through the generosity of donors, enables families to prioritize their children's health and recovery without the added concern of meeting basic needs such as groceries.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the most exciting two minutes in sports and support the youngest and bravest patients receiving care at Cleveland Clinic Children’s.
Meet Maddie
MIGHTY
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“ Evan never once asked, ‘Why me?’ He focused on what had to be done. We were incredibly lucky to have the Cleveland Clinic team by our side through it all.” — Megan, Evan’s mom
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Fourteen-year-old Evan Lallo knows what it means to keep moving forward. After seven intense months of chemotherapy, radiation, and recovery, Evan rang the Bravery Bell at Cleveland Clinic Children’s, marking the end of treatment for Ewing sarcoma. The moment was filled with high-fives, hugs, and gratitude for the care team, family, and community that stood by him every step of the way.
Fourteen-year-old Evan Lallo knows what it means to keep moving forward. After seven intense months of chemotherapy, radiation, and recovery, Evan rang the Bravery Bell at Cleveland Clinic Children’s, marking the end of treatment for Ewing sarcoma. The moment was filled with high-fives, hugs, and gratitude for the care team, family, and community that stood by him every step of the way. Evan’s journey began in the summer of 2024 with pain in his right shoulder. An athlete who loved basketball, football, and lacrosse, he was first told it was a sports injury. When the pain worsened and he lost movement in his arm, his family sought answers at Cleveland Clinic Children’s. Imaging revealed a rare bone tumor growing near his neck and along critical nerves. Treatment began immediately. Evan spent more than 70 nights in the hospital and underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. Through it all, he stayed focused on one goal: getting back to the court. Even during treatment, Evan surprised a packed gym by stepping onto the basketball court and scoring a basket, a moment that captured his determination and heart. As part of his recovery, Evan underwent a complex nerve transfer surgery to help restore shoulder function. With time, physical therapy, and persistence, his mobility continues to improve. In June 2025, Evan received the news he had been waiting for — he was cancer-free. Now a Cleveland Clinic Children’s Rock Star, Evan shares his journey to inspire others facing tough challenges and to show what’s possible with expert care and community support.
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Focused on the Finish Line
Evan’s resilience, grit, and positive mindset embody the spirit of the Rock Stars program. His journey reminds us that even in the hardest moments, determination and support can carry kids across the finish line.
In His Family’s Words
Why Evan Is a Rock Star
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When you support Cleveland Clinic Children’s, you’re helping children like Evan get the care they need right from the very start.
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Loves: Basketball, football, and lacrosse Favorite place: On the court with teammates Known for: Focus, determination, and quiet confidence Life motto: “Just keep going.”
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Your gift can make all the difference. Join us in lifting up the next generation of fighters.
When you support Cleveland Clinic Children’s, you’re helping babies like Maddie get the care they need right from the very start.
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Cleveland Clinic Patient and Basketball Standout To Receive Jim Donovan Courage Award At 26th Greater Cleveland Sports Awards
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“ Henry’s care team has supported him every step of the way. Watching him grow, learn, and keep his joyful spirit means everything to us.” — Megan, Evan’s mom
Six-year-old Henry fills every room with music, laughter, and energy. A kindergartener at Chagrin Falls Gurney Elementary, he loves to sing, dance, and turn everyday moments into something joyful. Henry was born with Down syndrome and a congenital heart condition, and his journey has included the support of a large, coordinated care team at Cleveland Clinic Children’s.
Six-year-old Henry fills every room with music, laughter, and energy. A kindergartener at Chagrin Falls Gurney Elementary, he loves to sing, dance, and turn everyday moments into something joyful. Henry was born with Down syndrome and a congenital heart condition, and his journey has included the support of a large, coordinated care team at Cleveland Clinic Children’s. With specialists across cardiology, developmental pediatrics, gastroenterology, pulmonology, nutrition, and therapy services, Henry receives comprehensive care that helps him grow, learn, and thrive. Through every appointment and milestone, Henry’s bright spirit shines. He enjoys swimming, practicing riding his bike, and playing on the playground with friends. At home, he loves baking cookies with his mom, wrestling with his dad, and practicing baseball with his big brother Jack. Music is one of his favorite ways to express himself, and he can often be found singing and putting on performances for his family. Henry’s journey reflects the power of coordinated, compassionate care and the importance of supporting the whole child. His determination, joy, and love for life make him a perfect Cleveland Clinic Children’s Rock Star.
Happy Henry
Henry’s happiness, resilience, and determination show how coordinated care and strong family support help children reach their fullest potential.
Why Henry Is a Rock Star
When you support Cleveland Clinic Children’s, you’re helping children like Henry get the care they need right from the very start.
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Loves: Basketball, football Favorite holiday: Halloween Favorite Food: Peanut Butter Favorite Colors: Red and Blue
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Cleveland Clinic Patient and Basketball Standout Receives Jim Donovan Courage Award At 26th Greater Cleveland Sports Awards
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“ We can’t put into words how grateful we are. Because of organ donation and the care Ava received, she has a second chance at life. ” — Jamie, Ava’s mom
Ava Cooper has been fighting for her heart since she was just six days old. Born with multiple complex congenital heart defects, Ava underwent her first heart surgery as a newborn and would go on to have four open-heart surgeries by the time she was five. Through it all, she showed remarkable strength, creativity, and joy.
Maddie’s life began with an extraordinary story — one filled with surprise, strength, and hope. Born at 31 weeks and weighing just 3 pounds 3 ounces, Maddie entered the world earlier than expected but with a quiet determination that amazed everyone around her. In those first fragile days, Maddie received expert care in Cleveland Clinic Children’s NICU, where she began to grow stronger with every heartbeat. A few weeks after her birth, her family learned that she had a rare genetic disorder — one that would require even more early intervention and support than her premature start already demanded. With her care team and loving family by her side, Maddie has continued to overcome challenges with courage and grace. Today, she’s thriving — full of light, resilience, and possibility.
Ava’s New Heart
Ava’s resilience, positivity, and creativity through years of heart care reflect the true spirit of the Rock Stars program. Her story shows what’s possible when expert care, family support, and generosity come together.
In Her Family’s Words
Why Ava Is a Rock Star
When you support Cleveland Clinic Children’s, you’re helping babies like Ava get the care they need right from the very start.
Our Youngest Rock star
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Loves: Art projects and creative time Favorite Thing: Being home with her family and dog, Rocky Looking forward to: Going back to school and seeing friends
Get to Know AVA
Ava Cooper has been fighting for her heart since she was just six days old. Born with multiple complex congenital heart defects, Ava underwent her first heart surgery as a newborn and would go on to have four open-heart surgeries by the time she was five. Through it all, she showed remarkable strength, creativity, and joy. After years of stability, Ava’s health changed in the summer of 2024. She began experiencing symptoms of heart failure and was transferred to Cleveland Clinic Children’s, where her care team determined that a heart transplant would give her the best chance at a full, healthy future. Ava was placed on the transplant waiting list and spent more than 200 days in the hospital, supported by oxygen, a feeding tube, and a Berlin Heart to help her heart pump blood. Even during her long hospital stay, Ava and her family found ways to create special moments. They celebrated holidays, birthdays, and milestones together. One of the most meaningful moments came when Ava’s care team transformed her hospital room into a dance hall so she could share a father-daughter dance with her dad, a memory made possible through philanthropic support. In March 2025, Ava received the news she had been waiting for. She was getting a new heart. After a successful transplant and weeks of recovery, Ava finally returned home, full of energy and excitement for what comes next. Now a Cleveland Clinic Children’s Rock Star, Ava shares her journey to inspire hope and highlight the impact of compassionate care and generosity.
“ Maddie was in the best hands possible. The team treated her like their own. We’ll never forget the comfort, kindness, and expertise that carried us through those uncertain days. We’re so proud of her and so grateful to Cleveland Clinic Children’s.” — Maddie’s parents
Maddie’s life began with an extraordinary story — one filled with surprise, strength, and hope. Born at 31 weeks and weighing just 3 pounds 3 ounces, Maddie entered the world earlier than expected but with a quiet determination that amazed everyone around her.
Though she’s only just begun her life, Maddie’s courage and story are already inspiring others. As a Cleveland Clinic Children’s Rock Star, she represents the hope we strive to give every family — that brighter days are ahead.
Maddie’s Journey is Just Beginning
“ We were told Bella needed a new heart to live — and then we had to wait. It was heartbreaking, but we never gave up hope. Bella showed us what strength looks like, even in someone so small. She’s our miracle.” — Bella's Mom
One day, Bella was giggling with her sisters. The next, she was fighting for her life. At just two months old, Bella’s family rushed her to the hospital after noticing rapid breathing. The diagnosis came quickly — her heart was dangerously enlarged. Bella had dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition that weakened her heart and put her tiny life at immediate risk.
One day, Bella was giggling with her sisters. The next, she was fighting for her life. At just two months old, Bella’s family rushed her to the hospital after noticing rapid breathing. The diagnosis came quickly — her heart was dangerously enlarged. Bella had dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition that weakened her heart and put her tiny life at immediate risk. Doctors told Bella’s parents she would need a heart transplant to survive. It was unthinkable — and yet, from the start, Bella met every challenge with quiet strength. She was transferred to Cleveland Clinic Children’s and placed on the transplant list. While waiting, she was connected to a Berlin Heart — a device that kept her alive until the right heart became available. After five long months in the hospital — and just before her first birthday — Bella received the ultimate gift: a new heart. The surgery was a success. And from that moment on, Bella began to thrive. She smiled more. She grew stronger. She stood for the first time. With the help of rehab and her incredible care team, Bella transformed from a baby in critical care to a joyful child with a bright future.
The Gift of a Heart, The Power of Hope
You may not have seen it through the wires and monitors, but Bella was a fighter from day one. Her story isn’t just one of survival — it’s about strength, resilience, and the love that surrounded her at every turn. Whether it was a sibling’s kiss, her mom’s voice reading softly at her bedside, or the tireless support of her care team — Bella was never alone. Her journey reminds us that miracles don’t always come with fanfare. Sometimes, they come with a heartbeat.
Bella’s Quiet Courage
Your support helps give more children a second chance at life. When you give to Cleveland Clinic Children’s, you’re investing in futures — and in the hope that every family will get to bring their child home.
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“ Watching Audrey go through something so difficult was heartbreaking, but the way she handled it — with so much strength and positivity — inspired us every single day. We’re so proud to see her share her story to help other families feel less alone.” — Audrey's Mom
Audrey’s story is one of resilience, joy, and the power of hope. At just 10 years old, she was diagnosed with leukemia — a life-changing moment no child should ever face. But Audrey met it head-on, supported by her loving family and the expert care team at Cleveland Clinic Children’s.
Audrey’s story is one of resilience, joy, and the power of hope. At just 10 years old, she was diagnosed with leukemia — a life-changing moment no child should ever face. But Audrey met it head-on, supported by her loving family and the expert care team at Cleveland Clinic Children’s. Through countless treatments and tough days, Audrey never let go of her spark. Her strength lifted everyone around her. Today, she’s in remission — laughing, dancing, and dreaming big. As one of our Cleveland Clinic Children’s Rock Stars, Audrey is using her voice to inspire others and bring light to families walking a similar path.
A True Fighter
Audrey represents what it means to be a Rock Star — brave, bold, and full of heart. Her journey reminds us that even in the toughest moments, children have the power to teach us about strength, kindness, and possibility.
Audrey Inspires Us All
When you support Cleveland Clinic Children’s, you’re helping children like Audrey get the care they need right from the very start.
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A True fighter
Favorite color: Purple Loves: Playing dress-up and telling jokes Superpower: Making everyone smile Dream job: Vet or ballerina (or both!)
Behind the smile
10-year-old gets father - Daughter dance while waiting for heart at Cleveland Clinic
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Nine-year-old Huck Kurinsky is the youngest person to successfully land a backflip on a BMX bike. Participating in the Trike & Bike series for Cleveland Clinic Children’s, Huck honors his late grandmother by cycling to raise money for our pediatric cancer research.
ELLIOT EASTON PROTÉGÉ CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED MUSICIAN
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Amazing Audrey
Audrey’s journey is one of perseverance and hope. Diagnosed with leukemia at just three years old, she bravely underwent treatment at Cleveland Clinic Children’s and is now in remission.
Mighty Maddie
Maddie Arsena’s journey is one of courage, hope, and strength. Born with a congenital heart condition, she has faced challenges with resilience beyond her years.
Get ready for a wild ride! Join us at the zoo for Trike & Bike—where kids pedal alongside wildlife and every dollar raised supports pediatric cancer research. Register or donate today to make a difference!
