The PLC, which was created by Maine loggers to help Maine loggers, has from the very beginning also been about helping others, with a specific focus on kids. The generosity shown through PLC’s annual Log A Load for Kids fund-raising efforts is remarkable.  

This year we are determined to once again come through for the kids and their families served by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in Maine and, new this year as part of our expansion across the Northeast, Vermont.  

We are proud to introduce to you, Kenzie, this year’s Children’s Miracle Network Champion of the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital. 

At six months old, Kenzie’s parents felt that she was falling behind developmentally, and not reaching her milestones. Their family worked with doctors, specialists and physical therapists, and underwent genetic testing looking for answers. But before they had a clear picture, Kenzie had a seizure that lasted forty-five minutes. An ambulance transported Kenzie to The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital (BBCH), and she was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

In the months after that first hospital trip to BBCH, Kenzie was diagnosed with epilepsy, as well as an ultra-rare genetic disorder of the VPS13D gene. She now travels to Boston for regular care, but her father Kevin explains that it’s not a matter of if- only when- she will need emergency care at BBCH again.

Seizures and feeding tube issues cause most of Kenzie’s stays at The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital, and she’s often admitted through the Pediatric Emergency Department (ED). Kenzie’s family has an incredibly positive outlook though, as Kevin shares “In all these instances, the level of care at BBCH is bar none. Not only do they take such wonderful care of Kenzie, and her needs, but they also make sure the whole family is cared for. This hospital is like a big family, and we couldn’t imagine entrusting anyone else to care for our daughter in an emergency. State of the art, compassionate care, right here in our backyard.”

While not in the hospital or visiting her favorite doctors, Kenzie is such a vibrant and vivacious little girl. She loves sports, especially watching her favorite local baseball team, the Portland Sea Dogs and their mascot, Slugger, who is her “best friend forever.” Kenzie also enjoys music, whether it’s listening or making her own, and has a huge love of being outdoors, going to zoos and aquariums, and traveling. Kenzie’s family tries to take as many adventures together as possible, not knowing what challenges lie ahead.

Kenzie’s future, with this genetic disorder and the possible connections to mitochondrial disease, is very unknown. Therapies, procedures, and medications continue, but one thing is certain- she will need emergency care again- it is a part of her life. When that time comes, Kevin explains, “we know that BBCH will be waiting for us, to keep Kenzie strong, and keep her infectious smile and laughter going!”

If you are interested in donating to Log-A-Load to help support the children in need, click here and join us on May 10, 2024 in Rockport!!!  Let’s make miracles happen together!