Casey’s General Store aims for $1.2 million for the kids

During the month of February, more than 1,900 Casey’s General Store locations will come together for their annual in-store icon balloon campaign to support 24 Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in the United States.

Casey’s has raised more than $2.7 million to help children at a time when they need it most. In 2016 alone, they collected more than $1.1 million from generous employees and customers. This year the goal is $1.2 million in the month of February.

All funds raised stay local and go to help sick and injured children like Suzie and Wesley from Casey’s headquarter state of Iowa.

Suzie, age 12

When Suzie was born, she was diagnosed with Alobar Holoprosencephaly and severe hydrocephalus. Her family was told that she would not survive and was sent home with hospice services only.  However, a few months later, Suzie received a life-saving shunt from the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. After being told that Suzie would never walk, talk, see or hear, the children’s hospital gave us hope when we had none. Suzie continues to sees many doctors that have helped her to get to where she is today.

Wesley, age 3

At three months old, Wesley was rushed to University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital with unsolved rapid heartrate. Upon admission, he went on ECMO for eight days and had a cardiac ablation to stabilize his heart. After being an inpatient for 34 days, Wesley was able to go home. He continues to be closely monitored and his family is forever grateful for the care they received.

Funds collected for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital have completely funded the pediatric dialysis center and upgraded medical equipment that have provided life-saving care to kids like Suzie and Wesley.