In 2005, Kate developed a rash on her hands, elbows, knees and around her eyes, which was diagnosed as a rare autoimmune disease (Dermatomyositis). Five years later, Kate was walking home from school when her disease progressed to the point that the pain became so unbearable she couldn't walk and had to be admitted to Children's Hospital at Dartmouth. For the active 15 year old, who had made captain of the cheerleading team, was taking part in two separate theatre productions and was involved with the worship and drama teams at church, life came to a screeching halt.

When she was hospitalized, Kate was not only treated by doctors and staff, she was treated with extra special care and made to feel like she can be a regular teen again. They knew her interests and "likes" and incorporated those things into her stays at the hospital. At school Kate was often looked at as different and she had to explain her illness. But the staff at Children's Hospital at Dartmouth let her just be a kid again.

Please join me in giving every child a chance to live a healthy life. Call 1-855-UR4-KIDS or visit Delilah.com.