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Meet Marc: Our 2016-17 Alaska Champion

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After a year of feeling unwell, Marc was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammation of the large intestine. Most cases are treated with medication, but Marc’s situation was so severe his large intestine had to be removed.

Despite multiple surgeries and painful procedures, Marc is mature and open about his condition, even joking about his colostomy bag with siblings and friends. “I know my illness happened to me because I could handle it,” said Marc. “Other kids may not be able to handle it as well as me.”

On difficult days when Marc didn’t want to leave his hospital bed, he could always be talked into visiting the pediatric playroom built and stocked using CMN Hospitals donations. He credits the video games there for getting him through each hospital stay. In addition to being an avid gamer, Marc also loves playing with Legos, reading and playing the piano.

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How donations helped Marc at The Children’s Hospital at Providence

A pediatric playroom built and stocked using CMN Hospitals donations was a highlight during Marc’s hospital stays. Donations also supported the child life specialists who helped Marc understand his upcoming procedures, thus easing his anxiety, and also provided distractions during painful treatments.