Olivia’s Story

An American Girl Fashion Show at HackensackUMC, she was too young to model, but last year, at age 8, she decided she wanted to participate. And nothing was going to stop her.

Olivia is a big fan of American Girl dolls and her favorite doll is Rebecca. Olivia’s mom, Sharon Israel, shares, “She was determined to take part in the model search [for the American Girl Fashion Show]”. Olivia’s personality charmed the judges and she was selected to take part in the recent fashion show. “We couldn’t be more proud that Olivia was selected. It’s truly a dream come true for her.”

The American Girl Fashion Show is a fundraiser hosted by HackensackUMC Foundation to raise funds for the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital. As part of the event, young girls have the opportunity to walk on stage dressed in American Girl Doll outfits with a matching doll.

For Olivia, the opportunity to walk the runway was the experience of a lifetime.

Olivia was diagnosed with Klippel-Trénaunay syndrome (KTS) when she was just four years old by Dr. Helen Shin, chief of pediatric and adolescent dermatology at the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital. KTS is a rare congenital vascular disorder that affects Olivia’s right leg. Since her diagnosis, Olivia has had 17 surgeries to treat the pain caused by this condition.

Despite her medical condition, Olivia has no problem taking the spotlight. She also plays softball, is on a cheerleading squad, takes part in gymnastics, participates in plays, and does other activities typical of a fourth grader.

“KTS does not define her life,” explains Sharon. “It’s important for her, and us, not to be a victim. KTS doesn’t stop her from doing the things she loves. It just makes her more determined to succeed.”

Dr. Shin and her team help to heal patients, not just physically, but emotionally as well. It was the team of clinicians that contributed to Olivia’s confidence and encouraged her to succeed.

The team at the Pediatric and Adolescent Dermatology Center at the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital provides comprehensive pediatric dermatology services geared towards making pediatric patients comfortable. Children have specific medical needs that can be vastly different from adults. The latest medications and most advanced technology available are provided by medical specialists to treat all types of skin diseases and disorders.

Your Support Will Make a Difference

Please consider making a gift to the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital. When you make a contribution, you have the opportunity to directly enhance the lives of so many children. Your generous funding will help us expand our lifesaving services, programs and research. Make an online gift now.

When you support these important services, more children, just like Olivia, will have the opportunity to shine.