Stefano

Meet Stefano: Brave, resilient, inspiring.

These words perfectly describe him – a boy with an infectious smile who spent the first 13 months of his life at the hospital. Stefano was just a few days old when he was diagnosed with a rare condition of the central nervous system that prevented his brain from telling him to breathe. But two operations brought him out of immediate danger and set him on the path to a healthy life.

In 2012, Stefano’s cousin Jennifer launched the Stefano Vito Ruvo Foundation, which has already raised over $100,000! P.K. met Stefano at The Children’s 2016 Ball, and is very happy to see him doing so well today.

Stefano always talks about being a Sports Broadcaster or Policeman/Detective when he’s older!

Jean-Gilles

Meet Jean-Gilles, a child actor, model and singer.

At 9-years-old, he was diagnosed with leukemia and spent a year at The Children’s. Thanks to his strong spirit, he refused to let his illness get him down. He and his mom made jokes, sang, and danced on his bed. His optimism and music helped him battle this devastating disease. The talented young singer even recorded an album and donated the proceeds to the Children’s.

Today, he is doing well and supports several pediatric cancer fundraising causes. P.K. met Jean-Gilles at one of his very first hospital visits and is very proud to still be supporting patients like him.

Jean-Gilles wants to be a Comedian or Singer when he grows up!

Léandre

Meet Léandre, a super talented kid who started playing the violin when he was only 3 years old.

Léandre was diagnosed with a brain tumour when he was only ten. P.K. met him and his brother when he was in treatment. After much bravery and resilience, as well as a 10-hour surgery, radiotherapy and chemo, Léandre pulled through like a champ! Since his amazing recovery, he has already raised more than $20,000 to help The Children’s patients – following in P.K.’s footsteps.

To raise funds, he organizes community events with his mom’s support. P.K. is proud to know Léandre is doing so well today.

Allyssa

Allyssa first met P.K. back in 2016, when she went from being a healthy teenager, to receiving the diagnosis of kidney disease.

After two surgeries, she ended up tied to a dialysis machine for over 20 hours a week. Her only hope for a cure was a kidney transplant. Fortunately, a year and a half later, she got one! Now a brilliant young woman, Allyssa is working towards getting into a physiotherapy program. Her desire to go into the medical field is inspired by her own medical experience. She hopes to encourage others by reminding them – and those that are trying to help them – that they must not give up, and to keep loving themselves!

P.K. is proud to support patients like Allyssa.