Amanda Jones was recently selected as the 2007 Stephen Duncanson Award winner. The 18 -year-old is a dialysis patient at Le Bonheur and is waiting to be placed on the transplant list for a new kidney. In the fall, Amanda will be a senior at Hamilton High School. She has been on dialysis since summer 2006.

The Stephen Duncanson Award is presented to a dialysis patient who consistently commits to fulfilling their educational obligations while demonstrating a positive outlook and actively participating in their medical care.

“Like Stephen, Amanda endures hours of dialysis each week. She puts her best foot forward each and every day. She is the best role model we have for our young patients,” Lynn Thomas, RN, PCC, wrote in her nomination of Amanda for the Stephenson Award. Linda also cited Amanda’s commitment to her school work despite her illness keeping her out school for several weeks this year.”

More than 20 children who suffer from end-stage kidney disease receive dialysis treatment at Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center each year.  These brave children must endure three days a week of treatments, lasting three to four hours each visit.  Le Bonheur’s nephrology team works tirelessly to provide state-of-the-art care and a home-like experience to these patients while they’re here.  Our caring staff develops strong bonds with “their” children, giving care that goes far beyond the child’s clinical needs.

The Stephen Duncanson Award is made possible through the generosity of Stephen’s aunt, Marge Duncanson. Stephen Duncanson was a dialysis patient at Le Bonheur who was known for his Bugs Bunny slippers, white seal stuffed animal and his heartwarming spirit. In spite of the challenges he faced, Stephen’s positive attitude, faith and determination brought immeasurable joy to his family, caregivers and his friends in the unit. Although Stephen lost his battle to cancer in September 2003, his spirit and his inspiration, live on through the Stephen Duncanson Award

If you wish to make a donation in Stephen's memory to assist in the ongoing needs of Le Bonheur's Dialysis Unit, please make your gift payable to: “Le Bonheur Foundation,” designate it for “Stephen Duncanson” and mail to: Ms. Kavanaugh Casey, Le Bonheur Foundation, P.O. Box 41817. Memphis, TN  38174-1817.  You may also use our secure online donation form, click here.