Kids from Portland, Beaverton Among Those Chosen to Design New Nike Shoes

Six children from Oregon have been chosen to be patient-designers for the 13th Annual Doernbecher Freestyle Program.

The program selects children who are patients at OHSU's Doernbecher Children's Hospital to work with Nike to design sneakers that will then be auctioned off to support the hospital that changed their lives.

Since the program started in 2003, 76 patient-designers have developed shoes that raised $14 million.

“For 13 years, Doernbecher Freestyle has served as a source of inspiration for every child that has experienced a severe medical challenge,” said Dana Braner, physician-in-chief, OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. “All children have the potential to achieve their dreams, and Doernbecher Freestyle unleashes this potential, providing a preview of amazing things to come. 

"We are proud of this remarkable relationship with Nike, and the opportunity to unveil the unstoppable superstar that we believe exists in every child."

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The program was created by Michael Doherty,  Nike's Senior Creative Director for Global Brand Presentations and a longtime member of the hospital's foundation, after his son suggested Nike create special shoes honoring patients.

The six designers and their families will travel to Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton where they will meet with designers and a development team.

The kids will brainstorm with the professionals and, if history is any indication, develop shoes that reflect the mix of serious and whimsical aspects of their lives.

This year's designs will be unveiled at the hospital's annual Freestyle auction on October 28th.

The shoes will then be available at Nike.com and select retail locations in November.

The proceeds from the auction and sales go the fund things such as research, clinical care, and helping cover the cost of care for families in need.

Profiles of the Six Designers (provided by OHSU)

Corwin Carr, 11, Hood River, Oregon

Diagnosis: VATERS Syndrome, Prune Belly

What do you want to be when you grow up? A pilot

Hero: My mom

Favorite hobby: Legos

“Corwin is a delightful boy with an exuberance for life, despite the many issues related to his complicated medical condition. He is gregarious and creative, and is always engaged with intriguing projects whether at home, school, or the hospital.” -Amira Al-Uzri, M.D., and David Rozansky, M.D., Ph.D., Division of Pediatric Nephrology, OHSU Doernbecher

Andy Grass, 11, Beaverton, Oregon

Diagnosis: Trauma

What do you want to be when you grow up? NBA player and a physical therapist

Hero: Aunt Peggy

Favorite hobby: Playing basketball and baseball

“Throughout a very difficult hospitalization and prolonged recovery, Andy has remained incredibly resilient and positive. He is a fighter and serves as a true inspiration to his health care team, family and friends.” – Aileen Kirby, M.D., Division of Pediatric Critical Care, OHSU Doernbecher

Chehayla Hyatt, 10, Salem, Oregon

Diagnosis: Cystic Fibrosis

What do you want to be when you grow up? Work at a zoo, or be a “YouTube-er”

Hero: My dog

Favorite hobby: Playing video games

“People are immediately drawn to Chehayla’s spunk, creativity and passion for life. She is an amazing educator and advocate in the Cystic Fibrosis community and exudes inspiration, courage and determination to those around her.”– Michael Powers M.D., Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, OHSU Doernbecher; and Emily Somervell, medical social worker, OHSU Doernbecher

Damien Phillips, 10, Terrebonne, Oregon

Diagnosis: Hemophilia A Severe

What do you want to be when you grow up? A scientist or NBA player

Hero: Uncle Mark

Favorite hobby: Playing the guitar

“Damien is a natural leader. He is eager to share his experiences living with an isolating condition so that others may learn from and understand the challenges and opportunities of living with a severe bleeding disorder. He is inspiring, courageous and dedicated.” – Michael Recht, M.D., Ph. D., Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, OHSU Doernbecher

Braylin Soon, 10, Portland, Oregon

Diagnosis: Autoimmune Hepatitis, liver transplant

What do you want to be when you grow up? Actress

Hero: Ironman and Dr. Garcia

Favorite hobby: Acting

“Braylin’s outlook on life, and the way she has taken control of her disease, is a true inspiration to everyone she meets. She has never let her disease define who she is, nor has she ever let it get in the way of pursuing her wildest dreams.” – Amy Garcia M.D., Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, OHSU Doernbecher

Chase Swearingen, 14, Jewell, Oregon

Diagnosis: Epilepsy, Hydrocephalus

What do you want to be when you grow up Neuropsychologist or Web designer

Hero: Dr. Selden

Favorite hobby: Legos

“Chase is an extraordinary kid. He is thoughtful and determined, and has a strong interest in his condition, which has allowed him to overcome and exceed all expectations. There is a bright future ahead for Chase.” – Nate Selden, M.D., Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, OHSU Doernbecher