Iona’s parents couldn’t hold her or touch her after she was born - they could only wave goodbye as doctors transported her to The Hospital for Sick Children.

Diagnosed with gastroschisis, a condition that causes the bowel and intestines to grow outside of the body, Iona remained attached to wires and tubes unable to breathe on her own. After six days in intensive care – and right before surgery - her parents held her for the first time.

Iona’s surgery went smoothly and not long after, she started breathing on her own. Now, a healthy and active three year old, Iona requires only checkups and no additional treatment.

Every day, SickKids is fulfilling the dreams of a healthier tomorrow for so many young patients like Iona. And every day, thanks to community support, SickKids is making bold, new discoveries that save the lives of children in Toronto, across the country and around the world.

Help our young patients, like Iona, by taking part in the Dreams and Discoveries Lottery for SickKids. Your lottery ticket purchase helps SickKids do what it does best – create a better future for the children who need us most.

Visit the SickKids Lottery website for more information. You can also watch Iona’s story below:

If you cannot view this video, please visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7j_IGrh30ao

*See rules and regulations at www.sickkidslottery.ca. LL #4095.