Kendyl Driscoll, Preston, was the Miracle Networks- “Starfish Award” recipient for all of her fundraising efforts for the University of Iowa Stead’s Children’s Hospital.
Kendra and Cory Driscoll are proud to report the following news about their daughter, Kendyl.
“A couple weeks back we attended The Children’s Miracle Network All Partner Rally, where Kendyl was presented with an award. To understand the significance of this award- here’s a little story…
One morning a man walked along the beach, and as he was walking along that beach, he noticed a boy picking something up and gently throwing it into the ocean. Approaching the boy, he asked, “What are you doing?” The boy replied, “Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up, and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die.”
“Son,” the man said, “don’t you realize there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make a difference!” After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it back into the surf. Then, smiling at the man, he said…
“I made a difference to that one.”
Inspired by the youth, the man joined him and began helping him to throw the starfish back into the ocean. Soon, many others joined in and by everyone working together as one, all the starfish on the beach were saved that day making a huge difference. The moral of the story is no, you can’t save the world, but small acts can make a difference. The Starfish story is a story about perseverance, dedication, and trying to make a difference despite what the odds might look like.
Each year, select individuals or groups are honored with a special award – the Star Fish Award. This award honors incredible champions who work tirelessly to strategize partnership, to engrain fundraising into the culture of their employer, and fundraise for Children’s Miracle Network – often behind the scenes, without fuss and expectation. Our Star Fish award really honors our unsung heroes.
It’s not every day that we meet someone whose heart and dedication inspire everyone around them, but today we have the privilege of celebrating such an individual. Diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis at just 2.5 years old, this young person has faced countless challenges and medical treatments, yet her spirit remains unwavering. Over the years, she has been an incredible advocate for children facing similar health battles, using her personal experience to make a difference.
Her commitment and belief in the cause have earned her a special place in the hearts of so many, including the naming of an inpatient room in their honor at the Children’s Hospital. Her resilience and drive to give back are an inspiration, reminding us all that even small actions can lead to big changes.
It’s with great pride and admiration that we present the Starfish Award to Kendyl Driscoll, former CMN Champion, whose unwavering dedication, passion to make a difference, and example of how one person can truly change the world are nothing short of extraordinary.
We kept this a secret from Kendyl, so don’t mind my video as I was trying to be sneaky so she wouldn’t see me
I am so proud of Kendyl, and a huge Thank You goes out to everyone who has supported her along the way of her fundraising goals.
Watch for dates and times for Kendyl’s Summer Lemonade Stand in July and for the late October Side x Side Fundraising Event. Kendyl’s efforts are on-going.
