Many in our regional business community may not realize that the leading charity impacting children’s healthcare has been headquartered right here in Salt Lake County for more than 40 years. Since 1983, Children’s Miracle Network has united corporate partners, donors and communities to raise needed funds for 170 children’s hospitals across the U.S. and Canada. Local donations empower local care teams to direct support toward areas of greatest need, from life-saving treatments to vital family support services.
Kendalyn’s story demonstrates the power of this collective impact. Born six weeks early, Kendalyn began life as a fighter. What seemed like typical preemie feeding struggles quickly revealed something far more serious: her intestines simply were not working. After countless feeding tubes and hospital stays, doctors at Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital, a Children’s Miracle Network hospital, diagnosed her with Chronic Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction, meaning her intestines cannot move food through her body.
Since then, Kendalyn has relied on intravenous nutrition through a central line to survive. She has also faced chronic pancreatitis, lung disease and bladder complications requiring multiple surgeries, including an ileostomy bag she proudly named “Lulu.” Despite constant pain and hospital stays, Kendalyn’s joyful spirit shines.
Through donor-funded Child Life, art and music therapy, she has brought light to others: painting nurses’ nails, decorating units and sharing crafts with fellow patients. Donations make those and countless other moments possible. Today, Kendalyn dreams big, reminding everyone that even in hardship, hope remains.
Utah is home to a thriving network of innovative businesses. Led by dedicated local executives like our Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel Andrew Sjoblom, who was recently named a 2026 Utah Business Executive Excellence Honoree, our team is committed to strengthening the regional workforce. Partnering with Children’s Miracle Network drives corporate social responsibility and helps ensure world-class care is always available. Together, we can make big change for all kids.
Wherever you see our iconic balloon, you will find people elevating possibilities. Learn more at cmn.org/who-we-are/.