Cook Children’s turned 105 years old in March! The big day gave us a chance to reflect back on our rich history, yet also look forward to our bright future.

We celebrated with our annual tradition of Good Night Lights. Staff members, donors, first responders and community members blinked their lights up to the windows of the medical center in Fort Worth to help wish our patients goodnight. The families, in turn, shined their lights back at all of us. The get-together is always a great reminder of just how many people care about our patients. They are compelled to play a role in our Promise to improve the well-being of every child in our care and our communities.

Just before the birthday celebration, we unfortunately had to say goodbye to a familiar face at the Fort Worth medical center. Chanel, one of the first two dogs who started our Sit, Stay…PLAY facility dog program, passed away. In her seven years with us, she was responsible for more smiles than any person could count. I hope you’ll take the time to read how special she was to so many people, on page 29. She will forever be a part of our Cook Children’s family and our story.

You’re a part of our story, too. As we continue to grow, you help us connect the dots for our patient families. Because of your support, we can give families, like Anna’s (featured on page 17), the sought-after diagnoses they need and the care plans to treat them.

You also make miracles happen for families like the Finleys, who finally were able to bring home their separated twins, JamieLynn and AmieLynn, after they recovered in our NICU for eight and 12 weeks respectively.

Thank you for being a part of our history, our future and our family.

With gratitude,

Rick W. Merrill
President and CEO
Cook Children’s
Health Care System