Youth Clinic Growing Healthy Kids High School Scholarship 2019 recipient

By Marissa Morton

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Colorado 4A Class Diver of the Year, Makena Sanger, was named The Youth Clinic Growing Healthy Kids High School Scholarship 2019 recipient. The Windsor High School senior’s primary provider is Dr. Kirsten Sampera, MD, who has been a pediatrician at The Youth Clinic since 2007. 

The summer before her freshman year, Sanger was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease after experiencing intense stomach pain, food sensitivity, and other symptoms. As captain of the Windsor High School Varsity Swimming & Diving team, Sanger didn’t let her illness slow her down. 

As a natural leader, Sanger discovered her passion for encouraging and helping others through swimming, music and participating in student run organizations. With the help of the Youth Clinic Staff, Sanger realized that she wanted to pursue a career in pediatric nursing to help children like her with debilitating illnesses. 

“Next year I will be attending the University of Wyoming. I have been accepted into their freshman acceptance nursing program and will spend the next four years studying nursing. I will also be diving for the University of Wyoming. After receiving my degree and passing the NCLEX to become an RN, I hope to find a job in pediatric nursing specifically trauma or NICU,” said Sanger. 

The Youth Clinic Growing Healthy Kids High School Scholarship application requires students to turn in an essay describing a time he or she had to overcome a challenge. Essays are scored based on theme and content, organization and development, grammar, mechanics and style.  

“Crohn’s, you have made my life nearly impossible some days. However, you taught me my inner strength and power,” said Sanger in her scholarship essay penned to Crohn’s disease, “In spite of you, I have continued my athletic career as a team captain in both of my sports, played violin for four years, become a leader of my schools Fellowship of Christian Athletes, kept a 4.1 GPA, and so much more. Four years ago you were my stumbling block, but now you are my most influential teacher.” 

The Youth Clinic specializes in the treatment of infants, children and young adults. It has cared for generations of area youth for more than 50 years and takes pride in its role as both partner and resource to parents in the development of their children. The Youth Clinic conveniently offers four office locations on the north and south side of Fort Collins as well as at the Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland and just off I-25 and Harmony Road in Timnath. 

For additional information about the Growing Healthy Kids High School Scholarship program visit www.youthclinic.com/scholarship.

Visit www.youthclinic.com to learn more about the services and care The Youth Clinic provides.