In May 2021, 11-month-old Bode’s life was hanging in the balance after a near-drowning incident in his family’s backyard swimming pool. Doctors estimated the little boy was unconscious for nearly an hour. After being stabilized at a nearby hospital, Bode was transported to Phoenix Children’s by air ambulance. In critical condition, he spent the next month in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), where he received around-the-clock care that ultimately saved his life.

“Everyone had a relentless commitment to achieve positive results for Bode,” say the boy’s parents, Greta and Justin. “His care providers were professional, loving—especially the nurses—and well trained. One doctor in particular played a big role in getting Bode healthy and supporting us: Dr. David W. Tellez. We cannot thank him enough.”

To celebrate the lifesaving care Bode received, members of his family made a contribution supporting the PICU that they hope will help others facing similar challenges. “The gift symbolizes our gratitude for everyone who helped Bode survive this terrible incident,” the family says. “Without Phoenix Children’s expertise and specializations—which are not found at every hospital—who knows where we would be with Bode. Phoenix Children’s is a tremendous asset to our community, and it’s imperative that we support the institution so they can keep doing good and saving lives.”

Beating the odds

Today, Bode is 20 months old and thriving. His parents describe him as a fighter who continues to get stronger every day. He continues to receive support and therapies from Phoenix Children’s but enjoys a relatively normal life. And he loves playing with his older siblings, 7-year-old Harvey and 5-year-old Odette. His parents and grandparents say that the joy they get from watching the toddler with his brother and sister is priceless.

“Bode beat all odds,” the family says. “He is literally a walking miracle. A big part of that was the excellent care he received at Phoenix Children’s. No amount of donation will ever be enough to express our gratitude for the wonderful people who work there.”

Support One of the Nation’s Top Pediatric Health Systems

Help provide hope, healing and world-class health care to patients like Bode today.

Stories Matter

If you have a story about how your life has been touched by Phoenix Children’s, we want to hear from you. 

Related Stories

More from the May 2023 Newsletter

A nurse administers chemotherapy to a child.Text change 1: Ellie is a budding fashionista, an aspiring equestrian, and an avid dancer and gymnast. She also has a rare metabolic disorder, but she doesn’t let it define her.

More from the May 2023 Newsletter

Text Change 2: As we celebrate Phoenix Children’s 40th anniversary this year, we’re also looking to the next 40 years and beyond. Read the 2022 annual report to find out where we’re going and how we’re growing.

More from the May 2023 Newsletter

Text Change 3: In February, Desert Financial Foundation, Credit Union and employees donated more than $1 million to support Phoenix Children’s 1 Darn Cool School—and they also had a surprise for a former patient.

More from the May 2023 Newsletter

Text Change 4: In February, Desert Financial Foundation, Credit Union and employees donated more than $1 million to support Phoenix Children’s 1 Darn Cool School—and they also had a surprise for a former patient.

More from the May 2023 newsletter:

Oliver’s Mind: May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and one courageous 12-year-old is opening up about his mental health challenges in the hopes of reaching others who are struggling.

More from the May 2023 newsletter:

Mother Amy smiling at the camera, holding her baby, Drew.The Power of a Mother’s Love: As she prepares to celebrate Mother’s Day with her baby daughter, a first-time mom reflects on what it’s like to care for a child with a life-threatening medical condition.

More from the May 2023 newsletter:

Introducing Our 2023 Patient Ambassadors: Meet the eight patients who are serving as Phoenix Children’s ambassadors this year: Joey, Sutton, Joy, Nash, SJ, Chase, Elilai and CC.

Ellie sits at her kitchen table after her family sang the "Happy Birthday" song to her. Her cake is in front of her.A Life Worth Celebrating: Ellie is a budding fashionista, an aspiring equestrian, and an avid dancer and gymnast. She also has a rare metabolic disorder, but she doesn’t let it define her.

Looking to the Future: As we celebrate Phoenix Children’s 40th anniversary this year, we’re also looking to the next 40 years and beyond. Read the 2022 annual report to find out where we’re going and how we’re growing.

The Gift of Knowledge: In February, Desert Financial Foundation, Credit Union and employees donated more than $1 million to support Phoenix Children’s 1 Darn Cool School—and they also had a surprise for a former patient.