Hope for HIE is built by an incredible community of families who face the challenges of this journey with strength, resilience, and compassion. What’s even more inspiring is how they go beyond their own experiences to lift others up—sharing their support, connections, gifts, and stories to create a network of hope and understanding.
Every family has a powerful "why" behind their involvement. Whether it’s volunteering their time, sharing their story, or working to bring the community together, their dedication makes a lasting impact, helping countless families feel seen, supported, and less alone on this path.
Hustle for Hope 5K Host
Tell us about your family and your connection to Hope for HIE.
Our son Cash was born with moderate HIE following nuchal cord compression and shoulder dystocia in March of 2022. Cash spent time in the NICU and received cooling treatment. During this time, he developed seizures and an acute kidney injury that ultimately led to significant heart failure. Within his first year of life, Cash’s heart fully recovered, and he no longer had seizure activity. He has been developing pretty normally, with the exception of a speech delay. He is thriving and such a happy boy! A little bit about us: Cash’s dad, Shane, owns and runs an HVAC business here in Wisconsin, and I make ads for our family business. I stay home with Cash, take him to therapy appointments, and go on all sorts of adventures with him.
What is your motivation for volunteering?
I joined the Hope for HIE community early on, but I truly didn’t get involved until Cash was around a year old. That first year was tough and is probably when I could have used this wonderful community the most, but sometimes things happen for a reason! Shortly after Cash turned one, a light bulb went off in my head: I didn’t want to feel the way I did anymore, and I didn’t want to continue looking at our experience so negatively. I knew that what happened to Cash was for a reason and that I had a purpose. I saw the post asking for Hustle for Hope volunteers, took a leap of faith, and hosted an event here in Wisconsin!
Can you share some of your favorite memories or moments from your involvement with Hope?
I have met so many families, children, doctors, and advocates for HIE along the way, and it has opened up so many friendships, opportunities, and experiences! My favorite memory was the day of our Hustle for Hope 5K. It was the most incredible day, filled with hope, happiness, community, friendship, and support! It was such an honor to put together an event where so many people could join together to support the organization and families and children affected by HIE.
What are some traditions or activities your family enjoys together during the holiday season?
Each year, we enjoy freezing in the cold to see the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train that travels through Canada and the Northern states. They put on such a fun concert, and the train is all lit up; it’s definitely a sight to see. We also try to do something new and fun: this year, we’re making gingerbread houses with friends!
HIE Hospital Ambassador, Hustle for Hope 5K Peloton Host
Tell us about your family and your connection to Hope for HIE.
We needed encouragement when our daughter was diagnosed at birth with HIE. Once we found this organization, we realized we were not alone, and it gave us the strength to keep pursuing the best future for her that we could provide.
What is your motivation for volunteering not only as a yearly Hustle Host but also as our first HIE Hospital Ambassador?
Our purpose of volunteering is to help bridge any communication gaps and let other HIE families know that there is a community out there that cares. We want families to feel the care and connection of this incredible community. In return, we hope to raise awareness about HIE within our local community and beyond, fostering understanding and support for those navigating this journey.
What are some of your favorite memories so far with Hope?
Each year that we host our local Hustle for Hope 5K event, we meet new families and have the chance to advocate a little more for the HIE community. One of the most incredible parts has been seeing how excited families get about participating—they even created their own friendly competition to spread awareness! We’ve received pictures of "Hope for HIE" signs displayed in some amazing places—on top of houses, boom trucks, and even in other states. It’s been so heartwarming to see how far-reaching the support is and how much people truly care about making a difference.
What are some traditions or activities your family enjoys together during the holiday season?
We love going out to cut our own Christmas tree!
Peer Support Mentor
Tell us about your family and your connection to Hope for HIE.
My son was born with HIE in 2017. This community has been there for me through the early days and beyond: being able to ask a group of over ten thousand people for lived experiences and emotional support for challenges that people in my direct support system just can not understand has been critical in my parenting journey.
What is your motivation for volunteering as a peer support mentor (and more!)
I love giving back to the community that supports me. In the earlier days, I knew how critical it was for my parenting journey to hear from those who came before me. I knew that if they made it through, so could I.
How has being part of the Hope community impacted your journey?
When I am questioning anything going on with my son, I know that I have a group of people I can go to and get their opinions and experiences. This allows me to make the best decision I can for him.
What are some traditions or activities your family enjoys together during the holiday season?
We love hooking the Christmas tree up to my son's switch. He loves turning the lights on and off.
The holiday season may only last a few short months, but the impact of supporting Hope to HIE is long-lasting. Consider joining in making a difference, whether it’s through donations, volunteering opportunities, or spreading awareness of HIE.
Together, we can create a legacy of hope, compassion, and support that extends far beyond the holidays, leaving a lasting mark on families who need it most.
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