I was introduced to the Happy Wheels in 2012 and feel honored to have been able to work with this organization in so many different capacities since then. A dear friend and member of my community, Kennedy Branham, was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor in 2012. Despite everything she was undergoing with her own treatment, she spent the entirety of her battle encouraging others to support pediatric patients through Happy Wheels. 

Kennedy sparked my interest and love for the organization and truly showed me what an impact it has on a patient and their family's lives. Between my high school cheerleading team, pageant platforms, and my sorority at Clemson University, I've had the honor of working with pediatric patients and collecting donations through various events and fundraisers that support the Happy Wheels. Getting exposure to pediatric medicine at a young age through Happy Wheels is what attracted me to the field that I am now working in. Ultimately, I went to Clemson University and got my Bachelors of Science in Nursing. Now, I am a Pediatric Nurse at MUSC's Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital. Each day that I come into work and see the Happy Wheels cart come around the unit, I am reminded of Kennedy and the lasting impact that she left on this organization and so many children's lives. 

I feel privileged to have such a deep connection to Happy Wheels and to have seen the growth it has had over the years. As a nurse, I get to see first-hand the excitement and joy our patients experience getting to pick out toys or books from the cart. It is truly my favorite part of every week. Despite some of the unimaginable things these children and their families experience, the donations we receive from Happy Wheels make the biggest impact. Without Kennedy, I am not sure I would ever understand the true importance and impact of this organization, even as a nurse today. It has been the most special full circle moment for me and I am so thankful for Happy Wheels and each and every donation that goes to these kids.