WICHITA, Kan. (May 2019) Andres Arambula, age 4, was recently honored in a special ceremony as Kids Wish Network’s Hero of the Year 2018. Family, friends, hospital staff, and Wichita Police Department Chief of Police Gordon Ramsey gathered at Wesley Children’s Hospital to celebrate this super Hero for bravely going through the fight of his life after a nearly fatal trauma.

Andres and his family were riding in their car when their lives changed with a road rage shooting. Two bullets were fired at their vehicle, and Andres was shot in the hip and suffered kidney and liver damage. He was treated at Wesley Children’s Hospital and underwent an exploratory laparotomy, the removal of the bullet, and the repair of his diaphragm, liver, and kidney lacerations. Andres also went through pain management and physical therapy to help him walk again. 

During his hospitalization and the long road of recovery, he was cooperative undergoing treatments and bravely embraced uncertainties. Andres’ Child Life Specialist Megan Gerber nominated him for Hero of the Month, a program at Kids Wish Network that rewards a child who has faced life-altering circumstances with extreme courage. He was awarded Hero of the Month in October 2018, and later became a finalist for Hero of the Year.

Kids Wish Network awarded Hero of the Year winner Andres with a “big check” for $5,000.

“Kids Wish Network selected a tremendous award to honor Andres,” said his mom Lucero. “We are extremely honored as well to be part of this supportive award for our son.” In addition to being a hero, she said, “he’s also a miracle.”

Having chosen one of Wesley Children’s Hospital’s Hero of the Month nominations as the Hero of the Year recipient, Kids Wish Network also gave a bountiful gift bank of toys and other children’s items to the Kansas Children’s Foundation, bringing comfort and happiness to kids under the hospital’s care.

“It was an honor to celebrate with Andres,” said Kids Wish Network Marketing Manager Josh Santiago. “He’s been through unimaginable challenges, and he’s inspired others with his positive attitude and determination.”

Kids Wish Network is a national charitable organization dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children with life-threatening conditions and struggling with life-altering situations. KWN provides trip expenses, meals, accommodations, and additional spending monies to all wish families whenever traveling as applicable. Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs, and find out how you can help make dreams come true and sponsor a wish for a deserving child.