TBO.com News

Kids Are Heroes

Published: Dec 6, 2005

The following is a list of the honorees of the 9th Annual “Kids are Heroes” held at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. In total, 117 children were honored Tuesday night. The list and descriptions of why they were chosen was provided by St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.

5-8 Age Group:

1st Carolyn Yerger New Port Richey 5-8 2nd While playing with her sister and mother outdoors, a pit bull dog approached and attacked. The dog came after the mother and other daughter so this hero used a scooter to block them. Instead of running away, this hero stayed and helped but then the dog came after her. She was knocked down and the dog bit the hero on her face and leg, but she saved her mother and sister from being bit.

2nd Kayvanessia Brown Zephyrhills 5-8 3rd An allergic reaction to morphine forced this hero's mother to pass out and fall to the floor at home. She helped by calling 911 and comforting her four-year-old sister until help arrived. Even though this hero has asthma and a situation like that can be very difficult for her, she was able to act bravely.

3rd Julie Ann Warkenthien Land O' Lakes 5-8 3rd This hero alerted her grandpa and brother that the house was on fire when she noticed smoke coming from the grandfather's room. She opened the door, saw the smoke and flames and found her grandpa asleep in his chair. After calling 911, she grabbed the dog and waited outside with her brother until help arrived. Her grandfather escaped the fire, but spent eight days in the hospital being treated for burns.

H Jesse Anderson St. Petersburg 5-8 3rd When this hero celebrated his eight birthday, it was his idea that checks be made out to the Red Cross and donated to the tsunami relief fund instead of being used for presents. He raised $380 and plans to do this every year.

H James Thomas (J.T.) Bennett St. Petersburg 5-8 3rd This hero and his younger brother opened a neighborhood lemonade stand which raised more than $300 that was donated to the Red Cross for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. He always puts others first and demonstrates compassion, character and thoughtfulness beyond his years. For example, he will create a get well card for someone who is ill.

H Jack Brennan Tampa 5-8 Kindergarten After saving coins for a special family vacation for two years, this hero learned his school was collecting for Hurricane Katrina victims. He told his parents he didn't need a special vacation and donated his savings to the fund. He's saved $190.63.

H Michelle Couturier Winter Haven 5-8 1st When this hero learned about the Hurricane Katrina victims, she wanted to help and decided to make purses out of construction paper and decorate them. This six-year-old then went door-to-door selling purses for $1 each. She made about $25. She is always looking for ways to help those who are less fortunate.

H Alice Darrow St. Petersburg 5-8 3rd After watching the news about the tsunami last year, this hero wanted to do something to help the children in the area hit. She started her own business. She decorates flip flops by hand and sells them. A portion of the proceeds from the sales is donated to three different charities quarterly. She has had more than $800 in orders placed.

H Eden Ellis Brandon 5-8 1st This hero went beyond the call of dutry to help provide relief to Hurricane Katrina victims. He reached out to friends and famiy for donations to a "Coins For Katrina" fund raising drive organized by a school teacher. Not only did this hero go out of her way to collect money in a bucket she decorated for the cause, she also collected food, water and other items. She helped raise a grand total of $1,586.

H Tyler Grisley Odessa 5-8 2nd To raise money for Hurriane Katrina victims, this hero gave up a weekend to collect donations for the Red Cross by going door-to-door in his neighborhood. He collected a total of $137.

H Abby Huetteman Valrico 5-8 2nd This hero decided to help hurricane victims by making handmade ornaments and crafts, putting them in her wagon and taking the items door-to-door to sell to neighbors. She earned $68 which she donated to the Katrina fund at St. Stephen.

H Reece Porath Trinity 5-8 2nd After Hurricane Katrina, this hero spent a weekend pulling weeds and doing odd jobs in the neighborhood to raise money for the Red Cross. In one weekend, more than $200 was raised.

H Seth Ravenna Tampa 5-8 Kindergarten This hero showed initiative and perserverence after hearing friends talk about the needs of people affected by Hurricane Katrina. With his wagon, he went door-to-door asking neighbors for donations. With the help of his younger brother, they collected so much that the parents had to help get the donations to the school.

H Abigail Stafford Floral City 5-8 2nd This thoughtful hero enjoys collecting and donating gifts for needy children and their families. With her sister's help, she recently sold lemonade and iced tea to raise money and awareness for Hurricane Katrina victims. They raised $32.50. And the two sisters recently had their hair cut and donated to Locks of Love.

H Marjorie Tincher Largo 5-8 1st During last year's hurricane season, this hero collected supplies, earned money and donated money to any efforts to provide help for the victims. This year, after Hurricane Katrina hit, she again donated to fundraising drives at church and school. She even used her birthday money to buy toys for a Mission Trip her church was organizing. She has a big heart and wants to help others by putting them before herself.

Mykel Akins Bradenton 5-8 Kindergarten At birth this 28-week-old hero weighed just a pound and a half. He is determined, giving, loves and respects the environment and people from all walks of life. He started the "I CAN Do It" recycling program in his community to recycle aluminum cans and he passes the can tops along to a volunteer group who earn money that is donated the Ronald McDonald House. A portion of his recycling profits purchase items for relief efforts, domestic violence centers, children's organizations and more. He also collects canned goods for a monthly food drive and makes animal feeders from pine cones.

James Andruchow Tampa 5-8 1st This very nice hero is friendly and makes the day of many people by saying "hi" and giving hugs.

Lamyjah Baldwin Tampa 5-8 2nd It used to be that this hero was too scared to see the needle but now when the nurse is ready to access the port, she doesn't even need numbing cream to lessen the pain. This hero also encourages other patients to be brave, not cry and never give the nurse a hard time.

Zach Bonner Valrico 5-8 3rd After hearing about the Dolan family, whose father was blinded during a holdup at the Radio Shack where he worked and was featured on Extreme Home Makeover, this hero contacted a bank and got them to agree to match any donations he raised. To raise money, this hero stood on a street corner near the Dolan's house and asked for contributions and he raised $7360 including the matching funds.

Francella Carter-Diaz Palm Harbor 5-8 2nd While out shopping with her dad one evening, this hero noticed that a man in the car next to her's appeared to be having a seizure. She quickly alerted her father so he could call 911. Medical attention was administered in time to prevent any harm or accidents.

Caitlyn Casper Trinity 5-8 1st At age four, this hero donated 10 inches of hair to Locks of Love. At age five, she saved her 2 1/2 year old brother from drowning by swimming to him and holding him until their mom could pull him out. On her seventh birthday, she asked the guests to bring toys to donate to St. Joseph's Children's Hospital and gathered close to $500 worth of toys that were donated and even displayed a Hurricane Katrina Relief jar at the party to collect for the victims.

Brian Faust Tampa 5-8 1st Helping his elderly great grandmother with cleaning and carrying things is typical for this hero. He also helps his mother and disabled uncle, doing yardwork, watching over the little kids and tries to be good.

Joseph Guthrie Winter Haven 5-8 Kindergarten Born with spinal bifida, this hero has been through countless surgeries, treatments and therapies.He has dreams of walking and runing with his brothers and being a "normal" boy. After learning to walk with the use of a walker, he agreed to be ringbearer on his mother's wedding day. Although he was in pain, he managed to walk the long walkway in the church and stood for the entire ceremony.

Kisuan Harris Riverview 5-8 3rd This hero is always willing to help his mother, who works full-time and is raising three children, with chores and feeding his 6-month-old baby brother. He also collects soda cans for recycling. Last year, he emptied his piggybank to donate to the Tsunami victims. He's also a volunteer for Carefest 2005, an event held at Crossing Church.

Payton Hiday Tampa 5-8 2nd While at a restaurant with her grandparents, this hero had a man come up from behind, grab her and pull her toward the door. She remembered a technique she was taught by a police officer in first grade and screamed, kicked and went limp until the would be abductor loosened his grip.

Emory Jordan Riverview 5-8 2nd When this helpful hero earns money by doing chores around the house, he divides his earnings into three categories: the spending fund, saving fund and charity fund. Last Christmas he donated $45 to buy gifts for another child for Christmas throught the Angel Tree network. For a fundraising drive at his school for Hurricane Katrina victims, he donated the $14 in his charity fund.

Zoe Lennox Tampa 5-8 2nd While studying in school how people differ in terms of their race, gender, physical and emotional makeup, this hero kept turning back to a photo of a little girl who had lost her hair due to cancer treatments. The next day, she showed up at school with very short hair because she had donated her long curly hair to Locks of Love.

Thai Nguyen Lakeland 5-8 2nd Despite battling cancer daily since kindergarten, this hero maintains a wonderful attitude. Even when he misses school due to doctor appointments, he completes his work and maintains excellent grades. He is friendly, helpful, always says nice things and never lets his classmates feel like they have to feel sorry for him.

Trevon Norwood Tampa 5-8 3rd By displaying mature thinking and good decision-making skills, this hero is able to be helpful to others and be a good friend to everyone. He is a role model for other students and has made giant leaps and bounds in turning around his behavior during the past two years.

Nina Olinger Lakeland 5-8 Kindergarten Every day this hero demonstrates her ability to lead by example, see the positive, encourage and teach others, even though she has a life threatening illness. She shows the other children how to be brave and not be afraid or cry when an IV has to be inserted or blood drawn. She even teaches her classmates about medical equipment and that dying is nothing to fear but a reason to celebrate. As a model for Proctor & Gamble, she donates her time and helps raise money for other children with life threatening illnesses.

Sarah Peeler Brooksville 5-8 2nd When this hero discovered her one-year-old sister had managed to open a childproof bottle of Tylenol and was swallowing them by the handful, she quickly swept what pills she could find out of the baby's mouth, moved her to a safe area and quickly put the spilled medication back into the bottle. The baby had swallowed a dangerous amount, but because of this hero's actions, is now OK.

Kyle Proper Tampa 5-8 1st This hero's five-year-old brother is severly handicapped and cannot speak and is still wearing diapers. The brother can't play like other children and requires constant supervision, so this hero makes sure he always lends a hand to his little brother, by buckling his car seat, feeding and bathing him and him walking him to the bus stop. He is always willing to educate others about his brother's condition.

Mauricio Rivera-Condori Tampa 5-8 2nd A focused individual, this hero stays on task, puts the needs of others' first, looks after his two younger siblings and helps his mom out at home. He also sets a great example for everyone in his class.

Christian Roberts Clearwater 5-8 Kindergarten This hero's father is in the Army National Guard and has been gone for more than half of this hero's life. He is loving and kind-hearted, and is always well behaved. He takes care of his family and hopes to be in the Army like his dad.

Ryan Robinson Zephyrhills 5-8 3rd This hero discovered a baby squirrel in a nest whose mother had died from an unknown cause. He rescued the squirrel by taking it to the Wildlife Rescue Center. This hero is always conscientious about doing the right thing.

Gabrielle Stickler Brooksville 5-8 1st A diabetic, this strong, brave hero gets two shots a day and checks her glucose levels seven times a day. She is a beautiful angel and is strong and brave.

Christopher Viteri Tampa 5-8 1st After many years of being in and out of the hospital, this hero has grown into a strong young boy. He struggles with ADHD but fights it to be the best he can be. He's adopted, has nine siblings and helps as much as he can.

Jannah Wright Clearwater 5-8 1st This hero was visiting her sick greatgrandmother with her mother and grandma, and she told her mother and grandmother "you know that great grandma will be safe in heaven" and comforted them by talking about Jesus.

9-12 Age Group

1st Samantha Cardwell New Port Richey 9-12 4th This hero was at a picnic and saw a four-year-old take off his water wings to go the restroom. When he returned to the pool, no one was in the pool to see that he forgot to put his water wings back on before walking into the water. This hero saw him floundering, jumped in and pulled him to safety.

2nd Austin Collier Lakeland 9-12 3rd This hero was involved in an accident - a four-wheel vehicle called a "mule" flipped and hurt him. Even though he was injured, he managed to help his sister, who's arm was hurt, and help lift the "mule" off of his father's leg.

3rd Jared Smith Lakeland 9-12 6th While at his post as a safety patrol, this hero saw a kindergarten student dart into the path of a passenger van to run to her father in the parking lot. The hero prevented the young girl from being hit by the van. AAA, who sponsors the safety patrol program, said he is the first lifesaver from the AAA Club South in more than eight years. This hero is an honor roll student and is well liked by students and teachers.

H Nathaniel Amen Brandon 9-12 7th A bake sale to help the hurricane victims of Katrina was the idea of this hero. More than $300 was raised because of his courageous nature.

H Shauna Brock Largo 9-12 5th This hero and her friend met with school officials to share their concern for Hurricane Katrina victims and offer to donate some of their toys and clothes. Together, they spearheaded a campaign to collect school supplies for the storm victims.

H Courtney Dollar Temple Terrace 9-12 4th Moved by the needs of the children in the path of Hurricane Katrina, this hero set up a lemonade and cookie stand and in three days raised $2,007 for the American Red Cross.

H Peyton Foley Brandon 9-12 4th This hero raised money for the Red Cross by going around the neighborhood and selling items that she no longer used or needed. She gets good grades and is always there for her friends.

H Jaqueline Frenkel Riverview 9-12 6th The principal of this hero had lived in New Orleans and had family there. This hero helped organize a bake sale that raised more than $300 for the Southern Louisiana hurricane victims. To promote the fundraiser, the hero made posters, tickets, flyers, wrote letters and helped.

H Destiny Rose Gass Lake Wales 9-12 2nd When this hero's school started a "Helping Hands" fund to assist Hurricane Katrina victims she took it upon herself to raise more than $600. She went to local convenience stores/gas stations and asked permission to collect money. She spent more than a week asking customers to donate, even after someone called the police on her.

H Kayla Gauvin Spring Hill 9-12 4th For this hero's 10th birthday, all of the students in her class were invited to a party at the local bowling establishment. Instead of gifts, she asked that they bring supplies for the Hurricane Katrina victims. The response was great and her garage became quite full. This hero's neighbor got involved and, as an employee of Jet Blue Airlines, arranged for the hero and her mother to take the supplies to Biloxi, Mississippi. As more people heard about the project, more donations were made. A truck had to be hired to take everything to Biloxi. This quiet, unassuming child knows what it's like to lose a home. She and her mother lost theirs in a fire a few years ago.

H Ashlee Johnson Spring Hill 9-12 5th To help the victims of Hurricane Katrina, this hero opened a lemonade stand at a car wash. She asked people to donate whatever they wanted to give for a glass of lemonade. The car wash agreed to donate a portion of its proceeds to the total amount raised for the Red Cross. The combined goal for the lemonade sales and car wash donations was $300.

H Joseph McClellan Spring Hill 9-12 4th Since Hurricane Katrina struck, this hero has collected about 90 pounds of food donations. He collected these by asking friends and neighbors to donate and by placing collection boxes in local stores. He's already packed and shipped 20 boxes. He recently asked Deltona to help and now classmates are collecting canned goods on with the help of this hero and his Cub Scout troop. He sets an outstanding example and puts others' needs above his own.

H Samantha Menard Brandon 9-12 6th The many children left without homes due to Hurricane Katrina touched this hero's heart. She knew that teddy bears and blankets often bring a sense of security to children who experience trauma so she decided to collect those for the young victims. She enlisted friends, family and schoolmates to help and even spoke to the Brandon Rotary Club at 7 a.m. on Friday to get their support. She collected more than 800 teddy bears, 200 blankets, 300 pillows and $80 cash. She is a bright, talented and caring young lady.

H Brittany Moss Largo 9-12 5th This hero and her friend met with school officials to share their concern for Hurricane Katrina victims and offer to donate some of their toys and clothes. Together, they spearheaded a campaign to collect school supplies for the storm victims.

H Brooke Robinson Lithia 9-12 7th Because of this hero's idea and efforts, a bake sale organized to help the tsunami and hurricane victims raised about $300. She put the event together, promoted it and got others to bring in baked goods.

H Alex Snyder Lutz 9-12 5th Working with his sister, this hero set up a Gatorade and lemonade stand (title Lemon-Aid) to raise money for the hurricane victims of Katrina. They raised over $250.

H Kimberly Stafford Floral City 9-12 4th This thoughtful hero enjoys collecting and donating gifts for needy children and their families. With her sister's help, she recently sold lemonade and iced tea to raise money and awareness for Hurricane Katrina victims. They raised $32.50. And the two sisters recently had their hair cut and donated to Locks of Love.

H Jacob Weinstein Brandon 9-12 5th Within days of Hurricane Katrina, this hero asked the school prinicpal's permission to raise funds for the victims. He placed collection buckets in every classroom and asked students for spare change. He organized a pizza party for the class that raised the most money and got the pizza donated by a local business. In the first week, more than $1,000 was raised and given to Red Cross.

Gabriella Aime Plant City 9-12 4th This hero goes about her day with resolve and commitment, putting others' needs above her own. At school, she smiles and offers a kind word to those who need one, helps those who are "organizationally challenged" by always have materials handy and quietly works behind the scenes to help those around her.

Kayla Baer Tampa 9-12 7th The sound of a meow through a window prompted this hero to search for six kittens whose mother was hit and killed by a car earlier that week. She freed them from beneath a broken down shed, and is now raising them. She wants to be a vet. Every time she sees an animal that has been hurt or is suffering, she stops to say a prayer.

Corey Barron Tampa 9-12 12th This unselfish young man spends countless hours helping others. He is an outstanding Boy Scout and is initiating his Eagle Scout project, "Operation Shoebox." In addition to his community service on various honor societies and clubs, he serves on the Mayor's Youth Council.

Casey Barszcz St. Petersburg 9-12 This hero is very involved in activities in her school, including being the Treasurer of the Kiwanis Builders Club. She is able to maintain high grades while being active in school functions.

Delis Burgos Figueroa Tampa 9-12 6th The hero is her mother's only daughter. She is special, smart and loves her mother. She's also very good in school.

Jamiley Cardenas Tampa 9-12 4th This honor roll student set a goal to become student of the month, has received awards for citizenship and has perfect attendance at school. She was a victim of molestation but is handling it so well her therapist agreed she no longer needs therapy. She's an inspiration, continues to be a hard worker and has demonstrated an extreme act of courage.

Elesa Castro Tampa 9-12 5th Just two years ago, this hero and her mother came to America from the Dominican Republic. She quickly learned English and overcame many adverisities to become a star student and a leader to her peers. She gives her best in every class.

Veronica D'Arco Brooksville 9-12 5th All of this hero's spare time was spent training her labrador puppy for Wags for Wishes. The event was rained out but she was able to raise $2,500. She was disappointed not to show how hard she had worked with her dog but wanted to prove that kids can do anything.

Dillon Defilippo Webster 9-12 8th This hero was ridiculed and physically assaulted at school on several occasions, but he refused to seek physical retaliation. He discusses the situations with his peers in a youth group and he prays for the kids who hurt him. He shows courage and self-worth and does the best he can each day. He's an excellent big brother, a son who does homework and chores and and inspiration to youth in his church.

Michael Espinoza Tampa 9-12 5th This hero always volunteers to help students who are struggling academically or socially. He works closely with another young man who is new to the school. He always puts others first.

Jessica Frenkel Riverview 9-12 4th This hero has taught her sister many lessons, mainly that even though they argue, they should use common sense to work it out. She helps her sister understand that it isn't about who is right or wrong. She's shown her sister the importance of setting a good example and is a hero who helps from afar. By cheering up others, being on their side and making other laugh, she is a hero.

Michelle A. Hernandez Dade City 9-12 5th Last year this hero volunteered to help with the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. She cut out "Memory Stars" and helped to run the fishing game. She never complained, despite the heat and humidity. She was there to do a job and she continued to work long past the time when she was scheduled to finish.

Shawn Holland Wahneta 9-12 5th This hero recently became a member of the Pride Leadership Team. He's been recognized as a hero at school for fulfulling his duties as a patrol and student. He's concerned with right and wrong and makes efforts to do the right think and see that other students at school do the right thing.

Richard Inman Tampa 9-12 12th This hero helps his deaf cousin at schol by attending classes with the student and interpreting what is being said. This hero was not enrolled at the school, but agreed to participate to help the cousin understand the discussions and contribute comments for the rest of the class.

Kacee Jerger New Port Richey 9-12 5th This hero helped a kindergartner who was too scared to get on the schoolbus. Until then, the five-year-old's parents had to take her to and from school daily. Not only did this hero look after the little girl and help to give her strength and the ability to face the situation, she helped the youngster make friends on the bus. This hero is trustworthy, an honor roll student and has won first place trophies as a BMX biker.

Caroline Jones Tampa 9-12 4th For the past two years, this hero has donated her birthday presents to the Children's Home. She displays an incredible spirit of giving for those less fortunate than she is.

Jamie Kamp Riverview 9-12 7th Despite being in a wheelchair and suffering from cerebral palsy, this hero takes dance lessons. Sometimes it is difficult and frustrating but her sheer determination is very inspiring. She has a smile that lights up the room, is always positive, is never in a bad mood and always offers words of encouragement to others.

Emma Lillibridge Lutz 9-12 7th This hero's love of cats prompted her to raise money to help a serval at Big Cat Rescue. She came up with the idea of raising money to take care of a cat for a year and made color brochures and flyers that she used in presentations even though she has stage fright. She has raised $100 of the $978 needed for a year's worth of food, vaccinations, vitamins, vet care and toys for the serval.

Hope Kathryn Matison Winter Haven 9-12 4th This hero touches the lives of a family member in "a million and one ways" by helping during hard times, always being there to look after others and understanding when money is not always available. She touches lives and hearts on a daily basis.

Myeishia Mitchell Tampa 9-12 This hero has endured a lot of pain throughout her illness, and doesn't complain or give up. She puts all of her faith in God, and her mother considers her a little miracle.

Bradley McLarty Lakeland 9-12 4th While vacationing at a state park, this hero saw a youngster slip off the rocks of a water slide and fall into the deep water below. The hero jumped into the water, grabbed the screaming, thrashing boy from behind and pulled him safely down the slide until they reached shallow water.

Gabrielle McClure Clearwater 9-12 7th This hero stayed home last year to homeschool herself and care for her newborn sister, to make it possible for her mother to work two full time jobs after getting divorced. Hurricanes brought more losses, so the hero's baby sister was adopted by another family. The mother and her hero are starting over together. This hero is now an honor roll student and takes advanced classes. A recent kidnap attempt by an intruder was stopped when this hero ran away from the car and got to safety.

Hunter Montelione Tampa 9-12 6th This hero acts like an adult and helps with his baby brother and sister. He's never mean to them and always willing to play with them. He helps potty train his three-year-old brother and loves to play with his 13-month-old sister.

Stephanie Rossman Brooksville 9-12 9th This hero regularly participates in the Relay for Life, a fundraising event for cancer. In January 2005, her mother died from cancer. Throughout the spring, the hero and her friends sold candy, handmade crafts and initiated fundraisers at school to contribute to the Relay for Life walk in April. She's thoughtful and always helps others.

Owen Sarwatka Lutz 9-12 5th On the first day of football practice, this hero suffered a severe concussion which caused him to miss the entire season, but he still came to practice daily and attended every game. He helps coaches and teammates and is the waterboy at each game. For his 11th birthday party, he asked everyone to bring a backpack filled with school supplies and a book instead of presents, to donate to the American Red Cross.

Heather Shadwick Tampa 9-12 6th Very mature for her age, this hero's like a second mommy to her older sister's baby. She is always there to help no matter what time it is, day or night. When students at her school made fun of her shoes, her mother bought her a new pair. But this hero said it didn't matter what the others said because "God knows who I am."

April Szima Tampa 9-12 4th This hero's teacher started to get up from a stool in the back of the room when the legs collapsed and dropped her to the floor. This heroic student rushed to her teacher's side after calling the office for help. Now in the 4th grade, the hero has been selected as citizen of the month numerous times.

William Warkenthien Land O' Lakes 9-12 4th This hero saved his grandpa from a burning house. He was home with his sister and grandpa when the sister noticed smoke coming from the grandfather's room where he was asleep in a chair. When they opened the door, this hero saw the grandfather struggling to pull the burning recliner chair out of the house. This hero went into the burning room, grabbed the grandfather's hand and pulled him outside to safety.

Emily Warren Bartow 9-12 5th Despite her life-threatening heart illness, this hero always smiles. Even when recovering from surgery or a "close call," she provides comforting and profound words of wisdom for her family. She is more concerned about them being sad or worried than she is about her own feelings. This year she was the Red Cap Ambassador for the Polk County Heart Walk.

Harold Welch III Seffner 9-12 4th A staff infection put this hero in the hospital for a month. Doctors operated for four hours to keep the infection from spreading even deeper into the leg. This hero has love, courage and faith in God, and teaches others not to give up. After turning 10 in May, the formerly wheelbound hero learned that the infection has cleared up, the leg can support him and he is learning to walk again.

Jakob Yeager St. Petersburg 9-12 6th The father and four-year-old brother of this hero suffer from Marfan Syndrome. It's hereditary and affects the connective tissues throughout the body. The father suffered a complete lens dislocation last year which took away his functional vision. This hero raised over $1,100 at school selling "Have a Heart" bracelets produced by the National Marfan Foundation, in hopes his little brother won't go through what his dad did.

13-18 Age Group:

1st Juan Chavarria Tampa 13-18 10th Despite being paralyzed, this hero swims on the varsity swim team. He pulls himself out of his chair, starts each race by falling off the block into the water and propels himself using only his upper body. He finishes every event he enters and pulls himself out of the pool and back to the chair. His wins have already earned six points for his team.

2nd Allison Sasso Tampa 13-18 11th This hero has worked with sick, abused and disadvantaged children at hospitals, shelters and orphanages for the past six years by filling and delivering thousands of art project bags to hospitals throughout Tampa. She's also volunteered at the At Home With Friends Nursing Home. She recently spearheaded a backpack project designed to provide packs for abused children who may be moved from a home at a moment's notice and assigned to a foster home. Through her efforts, she applied for and received grant money for this project.

3rd Jessica Woolbright Weeki Watchee 13-18 9th When this hero was 12-years-old, she volunteered one day a week for more than a year at the Hernando County Humane Society. Using her own money, she fostered orphaned kittens, bringing them home to bottle feed them over few hours round the clock. She also sponsors a child through Compassion International and chose a three-year-old boy in Mexico that she still writes, prays for and sends money too. She has volunteered at the Tampa Children's Home, filled shoeboxes with gifts for Samaritan's Purse and bought gifts for adopted children through the Salvation Army and Angel Tree programs.

4th Kito Middleton Clearwater 13-18 Middle School At age six, this hero helped a stranded student swim safely to shore. He's crawled under dumpsters to rescue hurt birds, made his parents stop the car so he could help an injured pelican and saved a baby owl. When he found a dog wandering the neighborhood, he brought it home and posted signs and reuinted it with its owner. He has served as a sport ambassador and represented the U.S. in youth friendship games in Sydney, Australia, personally raising $5,000 so he could go.

5th Sean Barber Zephyrhills 13-18 8th The family of this hero is of Native American and French Canadian descent and while researching information for a school assignment, this hero learned that the members of the Sioux Nation are among the poorest inhabitants of the United States. He decided to make a difference and made key rings that sold for $2 each and donated the money to the Pine Ridge Reservation and was marked for the heat fund for the elderly.

H Robert Guy III Largo 13-18 8th The money this hero received for his birthday was donated, along with some other money saved, to a fund raising drive held at school for the Salvation Army Hurricane Katrina Fund. He always goes to school early to help teachers with whatever they need done as well as doing anything to help. And he maintains high grades as well.

H Emily Sexton Tampa 13-18 9th This hero and her sister designed white and blue bracelets and made handmade charms for each that had the words "Hurricane Katrina Relief" on them. A local craft store let them set up a table over the Labor Day weekend and they raised $1,221 for the victims of the Gulf Coast hurricane and donated it all to the Tampa Chapter of the Red Cross. They have started another project to benefit the Spring abuse center that will raise money in conjunction with the local Tampa Bay Juniorette Club.

H Hillary Sexton Tampa 13-18 10th This hero and her sister designed white and blue bracelets and made handmade charms for each that had the words "Hurricane Katrina Relief" on them. A local craft store let them set up a table over the Labor Day weekend and they raised $1,221 for the victims of the Gulf Coast hurricane and donated it all to the Tampa Chapter of the Red Cross. They have started another project to benefit the Spring abuse center that will raise money in conjunction with the local Tampa Bay Juniorette Club.

Calvin Baker Tampa 13-18 7th This hero has sickle cell anemia and suffered a stroke when he was six years old. He is open about his illness and tries to educate others at school about it. He is a strong young man who says that God is with him what he is going through doesn't compare with what other people in the world are going through.

Ariel Bass Frostproof 13-18 8th Plagued by numerous health problems (asthma, epilepsy, allergies, chronic ear problems and Lyme disease) this hero still manages to maintain a 3.75 GPA. She's also very loving and giving and plans to take the Babysitters Course available through the Red Cross.

Wesley Colbert Tampa 13-18 11th This bright, happy hero loves to play around and be himself.

Ronald Coleman Brandon 13-18 9th Trained as a peer mediator through the county school system, this hero tries to solve conflicts among his peers. He plays high school football and has also won awards and honors for essays written about community heroes and black history, attended Camp Anytown and recently dedicated an entire year to qualify to travel to South Africa as part of the "Brooks Bunch" sponsored by professional football player Derrick Brooks. Even though he wasn't selected to go, he shows patience, persistence and perseverance.

Joshua Coley Seminole 13-18 This hero travels to Jamaica each year with his church and assists in building and fencing projects. He is more than willing to donate his time for this worthy cause.

Dylan Crane St. Petersburg 13-18 8th This hero lost his battle with cancer June 8, 2005 but his story and legacy live on because of a DVD he made to help others understand the disease, how it was treated and how he handled the efforts to save his life. It would be an honor for his brave eight-year-old sister Samanta to accept the award.

Tiana Danche Riverview 13-18 7th This hero treats her sister like a normal person. She doesn't hesitate to discipline or involve her in games. That is important because she sees her sister without the wheelchair.

Gisela Fernandez Lakeland 13-18 12th This hero has suffered from severe Crohn's Disease for more than 10 months and is now struggling to keep up with her school work after being hospitalized for long periods. She keeps a positive attitude about her condition and her future career and is determined to graduate next year. She's now homebound and on the teleclass program. She fights depression, criticism, cruelty from classmates and limitations of life activities but has a strong faith in God and sings at church.

Ben Freedman Tampa 13-18 8th A pianist, this hero performed a benefit concert with members of the Florida Orchestra to raise money for children and families in Niger, Africa. He undertook this as a Bar Mitzvah project and in five weeks he raised more than $21,000 that was donated to "World Vision" to buy food, medicine and supplies. He is a Boy Scout and a member of the Tampa Bay Youth Orchestra as well as other activities.

Evelyn Gates Gulfport 13-18 High school grad More than 300 US Army Junior ROTC cadets were competing when one female cadet collapsed while running and went into massive seizures. This hero and fellow cadet immediately rendered life saving first aid and helped to minimize further injury until help arrived. Her selfless and decisive actions may have saved a life.

Kristopher Greenslade Tampa 13-18 HCC In addition to volunteering at the Food Bank, this hero graduated two years early and was valedictorian of his class. He spends free time, vacation days and school holidays helping church and academy at Chapel in the Pines Presbyterian Church and Academy and mentoring students.

Austin Scott Hampton St. Petersburg 13-18 Freshman North Carolina State This hero is a 4.25 student who amassed more than 60 hours of dual enrollment credit from college while attending Admiral Farragut Academy. As an Eagle Scout, he built a park and memorial garden honoring a high school administrator who passed away. An accomplished springboard diver, he qualified for the Junior Olympic Nationals 14 times, was awarded medals and received a diving scholarship. He's also a state winner and National Semi-finalist for the Wendy's High School Heisman, a four-time All-American as selected by the National Interscholastic Swim Coaches Association and senior year he was awarded First Team All-Academic honors. He also found time to do over 400 hours of community service during high school.

Chris Husbands Bradenton 13-18 10th An amazing young man who is dedicated to his church, community and world, this hero spent last summer as a missionary in an African village. He was there to teach methods of growing crops and improving the standard of living. He serves as FFA president at his school.

Michelle Munoz Tampa 13-18 9th Despite being sick for 13 years, this hero remains strong. She has battled rough times, depression and pain. She has even asked if she should prepare a DNR order.

Scott Penna Jr. New Port Richey 13-18 11th This hero helps his mother run a bowling league called "The Challenger League" for challenged kids and young adults. He helps by organizing the lanes, helping the kids learn to bowl and has even become a certified bowling coach. One wheelchair-bound bowler won't start bowling until this hero has greeted her with a "hello" and smile. He's also volunteered for Special Olympics and he helps babysit at home so his parents can enjoy an occasional night out.

Brandi Phillips Palm Harbor 13-18 12th Several days a week this hero volunteers for the Suncoast Primate Sanctuary, helping to rehabilitate orphaned and injured wildlife. She donates both time and money to care for the primates, goats and other creatures native to Florida and has done this since June 2004. In addition, she works part time at two veterinary clinics and she maintains a 3.5 GPA in high school.

Regan Riley Indian Shores 13-18 When a new student came to school after losing everything in hurricane Katrina, this hero quickly gave her tickets to the homecoming dance and arranged for her to get a dress for the dance. She went out of her way to make this new student feel welcomed.

Tiana Sanchez Riverview 13-18 7th This hero treats her sister like a normal person. She doesn't hesitate to discipline or involve her in games. That is important because her sister uses wheelchair but that doesn't stop this hero from including her.

Stephanie Terenzi Palm Harbor 13-18 12th This civic-minded hero has a heart of gold, an optimistic personality and greets everyone with a cheerful smile. A lifeguard, she recently rescued a woman who suffered a seizure while swimming at a community pool. When she realized the swimmer was stuggling for air, she jumped in, pulled the woman's head out of the water and brought her safely to the side of the pool.

Sarah Wheeler Lithia 13-18 12th This caring and generous hero has donated $100 of her money to hurricane victims and is a bright academic scholar who's enrolled in honors and advanced placement classes. She's involved in the Best Buddies program and is a buddy to Dave, a Special Olympics participant. She tutors an 11-year-old boy every other week, participates in church activities, and has been a "Relay for Life" captain in the 11th and 12th grades. She is an only child whose father has cancer so Relay for Life is very important to her.

Kyle Williams Brooksville 13-18 12th At age four, this hero was diagnosed with a rare, and often deadly, disease called Rasmussen Encephalitis. He's had to overcome many physical and emotional obstacles to become the leader he is today. He has no use of his right leg or arm and walks with a limp. His father deserted the family and the mother died, leaving three boys in the care of their grandmother. n the past year he has volunteered more than 300 hours of service to the Brooksville community and his church and helped to build a Christian camp in north Florida.

DaLacea Wooten Tampa 13-18 9th Always a strong, intelligent leader, this hero is a positive influence on those around her. When her mother was diagnosed with a chronic illness that threatened her life and kept her hospitalized for long periods, the family was evicted from their home. This hero managed to stay strong and attend school without missing any days and maintained an A/B average. Despite what little the family has, she wanted to donate some of her things to the children of New Orleans and even sent a little money she'd saved.