Most Wonderful Time of Year

Hello My Fellow TrojanDMers!!! <3

It’s that time of year again. Your favorite campus cutie is back to save all those who are of deprived DM/CHLA (Children’s Hospital Los Angeles) information and, more importantly, spirit! For those of you who are new or who haven’t heard of me, I am Andrea Edoria- second-year Trojan, brain [aneurysm] survivor, and your typical all-around fun-loving girl. When I was three years old I had a life-threatening brain aneurysm that occurred at the base of my brain-stem (the area in your brain that holds all your motor skills). It was only through an 11 hour surgery that my life was saved. I spent [six] long months at CHLA where I was treated which became my second home, taught to re-learn everything from walking to talking to swallowing.

Since recovering I have been speaking on behalf of the hospital and the non-profit organization that raises funds for it: Children’s Miracle Network (CMN). My job is to get supporters, everyone from Marriott to Costco to YOU, to donate to this life-saving hospital! I owe them my life and this is the least I can do to repay them.

Recently, I was invited to represent CHLA in a taping for a new reality show (to be aired this September!) by a member of the central CMN team in Utah. The show was, as David Osmond (<—- YES, Osmond! Donny’s nephew!) described, a cross between American Idol and The Apprentice. Aspiring singer-songwriters team up to write songs for a different charity every week. As I’m sure you’ve already guessed, the week I came, I was to judge the songs they would write and perform for me and the heads of the central CMN team i.e CEO.

All the contestants were extremely nice and gave me hugs and made me feel so loved that when I heard their songs I couldn’t help but cry my eyes out! Their lyrics really tell the stories of every child who has been in a Children’s Hospital (like me!). They spoke of the pain and struggles these kids have to endure. But they also speak of the hope and endless support everyone from a Children’s Hospital gives, all to see that child get better. All of them were so touching it was impossible for me to choose just one! The song is set to be available for download right after the episode airs (and you can bet that I will be posting that download link up here) this September! ALL proceeds will go directly to YOUR local Children’s Hospital!

I can’t WAIT for you all to hear it on the show and at TrojanDM!!! It will be used as the theme song for ALL Children’s Hospitals so ALL of you better download and memorize it so YOU can sing along at Dance Marathon!!! You’ll have to WAIT just a little more, but, I assure you, that WAITING is not in vain!!! ‘Till then I hope to see YOU ALL getting your TrojanDM spirit on and party your way to February!!!

Peace, Love, & FIGHT ON!!!!!

XOXO

Andrea <3

Achievements of a Survivor

At the heart of your generosity is the desire to make a change.

My name is Brihana Dominguez; I am 18 years old and an incoming student at California State University Los Angeles. I just recently finished coaching girls J.V/Frosh Soph water polo at Bonita High School. This month I will be participating in a program at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles called Camp CHLA.

Camp CHLA is a chance to explore exciting careers in the medical field and is designed for students interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare profession. Camp CHLA continues for five full days providing an education, observation and participation in the daily activities of healthcare professionals. My past as a patient at Children’s Hospital has lead me to my present involvement as an ambassador for DM. Participating in TrojanDM has provided clarity to the interests of my career choices. And who I am today will improve who I am tomorrow. At the heart of your generosity is the desire to make a change. Participating in DM can benefit its volunteers and participants in many positive ways. Those of us who choose social responsibility can make a difference in the lives of patients and families in need at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.