Miracle Makers: Running for the Kids

Every year dedicated and passionate Walmart and Sam’s Club associates raise millions of dollars for kids treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals across North America. We asked a few associates to share the reasons they do so much to help kids live better. We’ll feature their responses in a series of posts. The annual U.S. Walmart and Sam’s Club campaign runs June 10-July 7. 

Today’s Miracle Maker story comes from Albina Petiprin at Walmart #705 in Mount Dora, FL.

How long have you been with Walmart? 

I’ve been working at Walmart for 28 years and now work for Orlando’s S.W.A.T. (Sam Walton’s Action Team) remodel crew.

What’s your personal connection to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals?

Baby Abby was my adopted son’s daughter. She was born with medical issues, and our children’s hospital used all possible medical treatments to keep her alive. The doctors and nurses took awesome care of baby Abby, but could not save her. She is an angel now watching over all of us.

I started Fundraising for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in 1991 because of friends that had kids treatment done at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital. I also run for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals as a Miracle Maker at the Disney Princess Half Marathon. Baby Abby’s spirit guides me to fundraise at the store level and to run for kids.

What is one thing you wish all Walmart customers and associates knew about Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals?

All the money we raise goes to our local hospitals to help kids and their families. The money that comes from fundraising helps kids with illnesses that need more funding for research and treatment. Plus, it helps the families concentrate on what is important: their child’s health and wellness.