Heart patient tugs at my heartstrings

An eight year old boy has stolen my heart. His name is Evan Hale, and he’s had heart surgeries since long before he can remember (8 days old). I learned about him in preparations for the upcoming Heart Ball, when I interviewed Evan and two other brave individuals who’ve experienced major health concerns involving their hearts. Evan and his parents came into our News13 studios to tell his special story on tape- part of the presentations during the Heart Ball event. It amazes me to hear how ADULTS have managed to maintain a positive spirit through adversity. So when this CHILD who has suffered through several surgeries with more to come, speaks about his challenges with hope, faith, and a light in his eyes like I’ve rarely seen., well that’s something!
I knew that day that Evan, his parents and family were indeed special. Then, when I heard that his school- Palmetto Bays Elementary- was honoring Evan in this year’s Jump Rope for Heart event, I couldn’t miss it. I walked into the All Purpose room at the school, to see more than 100 kids, jumping like crazy. At times, they chanted Evan’s name, with pure enthusiasm and a support you would think kids don’t even know how to provide yet. It was so much bigger than I imagined, kids jumping rope all over the place, with prizes awarded every few minutes, and an energy I care barely remember having myself (as a kid).
When it was all said and done that day, Evan was the individual to raise more donations than any child at the school. And the whole school raised more than $10,000! All of this, in honor of Evan, and heart disease. Evans huge blue eyes were filled with joy when he received his award. My eyes were pretty full of tears. Evan’s family has been through serious anguish over his health challenges, and the day Evan was honored at his school, the excitement of the event, well let’s just say every family member was beaming with pride. Evan and his parents will be at the Heart Ball Saturday night, and I can’t wait to see this precious young man shine again for all to see. He’s promised he’ll save a dance for me.

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