Seven years ago, Krista and I didn't worry much about whether or not Charlottesville was home to one of the best medical facilities. After all, most common health issues can be addressed effectively by any well trained doctor. But we quickly learned what a top ranked academic insitute means for pediatrics and in our case neonatology.

When Walker was born more than 9 weeks early and weighed less than 4 pounds, we instantly became cheerleaders for UVa Children's Hospital. We realized how blessed we were that our child was as healthy as he was. And while 6 weeks in the NICU seemed an eternity to us, there were many families fighting much more difficult issues over much longer periods of time. When we brought Walker home, we knew that UVa had saved our son's life.

When Grey was born three years later not breathing and with no heart beat, we knew once again that UVa was the only place in Charlottesville that could care for her. And once more, we found ourselves in a long-term stay in one of the greatest facitilies anywhere.

There are hundreds of children born every year in Charlottesville that require the health care that can only be provided at UVa. And as our children grow, we know that we want to make sure that the University is able to continue providing the best care in the Region to all families who are in the same predicament that we were. We hope that you will join us in helping UVa by donating to UVa Children's Hospital.

Our goal this year is higher than ever. But we know that it is necessary for UVa to continue to provide the only NICU and PICU in the area. We hope you will generously support us in this year's Walk for Kids.

Many thanks,
Keith, Krista, Walker and Grey