Ken & Colleen’s Kids Radiothon

Truman Happel

Truman Happel has quite the success story for only being about a year old. At six weeks old, Truman’s parents were told Truman’s heart was taking up 75% of his chest space. There was an obstruction in his aorta, causing his heart to beat more than normal and just like any other muscle get larger. Doctors were able to remove the obstruction. Since then, Truman has been doing well. He enjoys eating Cheerios, and playing with his toys and older brothers.

Truman’s check up in June of 2007 revealed a PERFECT heart.  Normal heart size, normal heart function – no meds, and now we can wait a whole year between cardiology visits.  He is doing awesome. We are anxious for his next cardiology check up (which is next month) and hope that we continue to receive wonderful news about his progress.

He’s had a busy year since they saw him.  He learned to walk and talk, enjoys eating anything he can get his hands on (including inedible items), and is the friendliest and most outgoing/social 23 month old I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.  He knows no stranger, and has outstretched arms and a kiss/hug for anyone who crosses his path.  His favorite pastimes include bothering his two older brothers, pointing out ceiling fans in every building we enter, eating chocolate chip granola bars, and meeting new friends.  He wakes up cheerful each morning, and goes non-stop until he collapses from exhaustion at bedtime.  He is lots of fun, and a big comedian.  He loves an audience!  We are so thankful for his health and disposition and to the UI Children’s Hospital and CMN for all of their support and care.

From Big Ken, Colleen & Kurt

CMN means one thing to us…helping kids. When a child here at the hospital smiles, it lights up the room, and this Thursday and Friday, we want this hospital to be shining brightly.

We have been doing the radiothon for many years, and it means so much to us that you hear these kids’ stories, you feel the emotions of the parents, and you continue to assist these kids and families.

Helping the CMN directly impacts the quality of life of kids in the hospital, and we thank you so much for your continued support.

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