BJ's Story

BJ
Age 10
Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health
Spina Bifida

BJ is one of the most motivated kids you’ll ever meet. Dubbed “BJ Claus” by his friends and family, BJ makes a difference for the other patients at Riley Hospital for Children by doling out toys at Christmas and smiles throughout the year. 

Born with spina bifida, BJ knows the halls of Riley Hospital like the back of his hand. He received his first surgery there less than 24 hours after he was born. Since then, BJ has overcome 15 additional surgeries, including kidney cross-fusing and the amputation of his right leg. BJ describes Riley as his “second home,” and a place where he’s encouraged daily to “never give up hope.”

For the last three years BJ has united teachers, businesses and church groups around Bloomfield, Ind. in a Christmas toy drive. In 2011 he set a new record by collecting 638 toys. With an ear-to-ear smile, BJ is eager to bring joy into other kids’ lives. He has already begun collecting toys for this year’s Christmas drive.