Although she faces medical challenges and everything that goes along with being a teenager , Emmalee is a proud and active representative for her community and other young patients just like her . Because of this go-getter attitude , Emmalee was chosen as the 2021 Children ’ s Miracle Network Champion Child Ambassador and was awarded the 2021 PBS Reno Spotlight Award for Extraordinary Youth .
“ I hope my story can inspire other young patients to believe in themselves ,” Emmalee said . “ It can be hard dealing with health challenges , but I always think about those who have it worse than me . Instead of complaining about the things I can ’ t do , I celebrate all the things I can do .”
For Emmalee , celebration comes in the form of activities and hobbies . She loves participating in Girl Scouts and is a top cookie seller . Her favorite cookies change all the time , but this year they were Caramel Delights and Toast-Yay ! cookies . Emmalee also loves hanging out with her four dogs Rosie , Balloo , Savannah and Felix .
When she grows up , Emmalee can ’ t wait to be a pediatric nurse . “ I want to help kids , like the nurses and doctors that helped me ,” she said . “ I want them to feel as important as the doctors made me feel .”
RENOWN CHILDREN ’ S HOSPITAL
Renown is home to the only children ’ s hospital in northern Nevada and is continuing to invest in pediatric specialty care to help keep our youngest patients close to home for care .
22 pediatric specialties
9 OUT OF 10 children from the community who need care choose Renown
24 / 7 children ’ s ER
Emmalee Sutton and Caroline Barangan , MD
ANNUAL REPORT 33