Sangamon Sun

Two former patients from the Springfield area have been appointed as local and national champions for the Children's Miracle Network (CMN) in 2025. Jase Hendricks, a nine-year-old from Rochester, and Lyndie Jones, an eleven-year-old from Chestnut, will represent the network's 170 member children's hospitals across the U.S. and Canada. Their role involves sharing their recovery stories and highlighting the care they received at HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital.

Jase's journey began in 2022 when he suffered severe injuries after a semitrailer truck collided with his vehicle, leading to a 15-day coma. His mother, Brittany Hendricks, expressed gratitude towards the hospital staff, particularly recognizing Susan Tomko, RN, as Jase's "hero" for her kindness during his recovery. “What stood out to me is the kindness and gentleness she showed to Jase,” Brittany Hendricks stated.

Patrick Rath, HSHS System Vice President of Philanthropy, emphasized the hospital's commitment to high-quality care: “That moment when life changes, we’re here.”

Lyndie Jones spent nine months in St. John’s Level III neonatal intensive care unit due to several surgeries she underwent as an infant. Her mother, Katie Alsup, recounted the challenging period when Lyndie's survival chances were less than 10%. “I think we visited every department in the children’s hospital,” Alsup said.

After serving as St. John’s 2023 local champion, Lyndie was named a CMN 2025 national champion and ceremoniously passed her title to Jase on Monday.

Dr. Doug Carlson, Medical Director of HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital, highlighted that many community members are unaware of the over 20 specialized pediatric medical specialties offered by the hospital. These include cancer treatments and rehabilitation therapies among others. “We provide the experts you need for your child’s care,” Dr. Carlson noted.