Giving thanks by giving back

James Farmer, Service Manager at Indianapolis’s Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, is a proud dad, grinning from ear to ear as he watches his 19-year-old daughter, Madissan, play basketball. He can hardly believe this is the same little girl who doctors said may never be able to walk or function on her own. Some might call it a miracle, but James attributes her strength and determination to the staff at Riley Hospital in Indianapolis.

Madissan was born with Cerebral Palsy. Seeing Madissan enjoying the simple things in life is a constant reminder for James on why he is so passionate about giving back to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals) and why their local hospital, Riley Hospital, will always hold a special place in his heart.

The Farmers first encountered Riley Hospital when Madissan was just nine months old. From their very first visit, James was comforted by the caring staff who took the patience and time to help his daughter and a lost and scared father that needed help in understanding the road ahead of them.

For the next 14 years, Riley Hospital became their second home. From doctor visits and appointments to a multitude of tests, the staff and level of care at Riley Hospital far exceeded James’ expectations.

James is proud to work for a company that supports an organization that helps so many others with similar situations. He is thankful for the opportunity to give back to the organization that supported his daughter and family for so many years.

Madissan is also proud to give back and has a job through a special needs organization geared towards helping young adults with disabilities.

Direct Energy is a proud partner of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, donating funds and volunteering time to children’s hospitals across the United States and Canada. In January 2018, Direct Energy Services donated more than $48,000 to Riley Hospital by giving $100 for every water heater sold and installed over a 90-day period in Indianapolis. This was the largest CMN Hospital donation from a single location across the US. James proudly volunteered to lead this fundraising campaign to show his gratitude for an amazing organization that not only helped his daughter, but exists to helps others.