After Son Receives Lifesaving Care, Mom Donates Birthday in Support of The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital

Some people want dinner out at one of Maine’s best restaurants for their birthday. Others are hoping for a sweet treat and a nice bottle of wine. Mary Beth Patnaude of Wells, Maine is asking her friends and family to donate to at The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital (BBCH). Just six weeks ago, her 14-year-old son, Aaron, was fighting for his life in BBCH’s pediatric intensive care unit. Patnaude wants to use her birthday to support other children who need life-saving care.

“Aaron was admitted to BBCH on Dec. 27 with what we thought was pneumonia. It turned out he had a rare and almost fatal infected chest cavity, known as a Pleural Empyema,” Patnaude said. “When someone asked what I wanted for my birthday, I said all I want is for Aaron to be well. BBCH gave me what I wished for, and now I want to give back.”

Aaron underwent three emergency surgeries to remove the infection and spent eight days hospitalized at BBCH. Thanks to the team of pediatric specialists at BBCH, he is expected to make a full recovery.

Patnaude is using the My Miracle Birthday website platform to collect donations. The website allows the birthday donor to personalize their fundraising page and share with friends and family via email or social media.

The amount that Patnaude raises in support of the children being treated at BBCH will be doubled, thanks to matching gift commitments from Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution and P&C Insurance.

To learn more about the My Miracle Birthday program and the matching gift commitment from Saco & Biddeford Savings and P&C Insurance, click here.