Client: Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
Source: Evanston Review
Their story is a testament to the bond between a mother and her daughter. On September 23, another chapter was added when Evanston native Margaret Storey and her 13-year-old daughter Josie Heller were awarded the Lurie Children’s ‘Courage and Hope Patient and Family Award.’ This honor recognizes the contributions of people who have demonstrated exceptional commitments to improving the health and well-being of children.
Margaret became an advocate for children with developmental and physical challenges after Josie was born with Aicardi Syndrome, a rare disorder that results in brain abnormalities and epilepsy.
“Lurie has provided us a way to translate the difficulties of our personal experiences into real change for other families,” Storey said. “I’ve been fortunate to serve on both Lurie’s Family Advisory Board and their Public Policy Committee, so I know the work they do for kids and families who are struggling through some of the most challenging ordeals around.”
Since 2014, Margaret has taken her experiences as a parent and advocate and published multiple pieces in The New York Times, The Guardian, the Chicago Tribune, and CNN Opinion.
“I try to use my skills as a speaker, educator and writer to advocate for change for children with disabilities and complex medical conditions and their families,” Storey said. “All of these are ways I can amplify the voices of the families I know who are trying to make their children’s lives better.”
Evanston Review, “Shout Out: Margaret Storey, Lurie Children’s Hospital award recipient,” September 30, 2016