Reaction from the field
The announcement of Ivy Brodner as the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation Champion Child for 2026 has brought significant attention to her inspiring journey. Ivy, who has been diagnosed with juvenile dermatomyositis, a rare autoimmune disease, faced numerous health challenges that have profoundly impacted her life and those around her.
Before her diagnosis, Ivy experienced recurring fevers for a full year, which led to a series of tests and hospital stays. Her mother, Shandra Brodner, recounted the severity of Ivy’s condition, stating, “Ivy completely lost her mobility and was only able to move her eyes back and forth.” This drastic change in her physical abilities was alarming for her family, as they navigated the complexities of her illness.
As the medical team worked to understand her symptoms, Ivy’s bloodwork revealed extremely elevated muscle enzymes known as CK, with levels measured at upwards of 15,000, far exceeding the normal range of 60 to 160. This alarming finding prompted immediate medical intervention, including an emergency central line placement to ensure she received the necessary fluids and care.
For five months, Ivy required tube feeding without any oral intake, a challenging adjustment for a young child. Shandra shared the emotional toll this took on Ivy, saying, “The symptoms after the fevers were pain episodes,” and described how “every muscle in her body was quite inflamed, including her throat muscles to swallow.” These struggles highlight the resilience and strength Ivy has shown throughout her ordeal.
In addition to Ivy’s story, the curling community is also facing changes. Tyler Tardi, a prominent figure in Saskatchewan curling, announced that he will skip the team previously led by Mike McEwen. This decision comes on the heels of the McEwen rink missing the playoffs at this year’s Brier, which has left fans and players alike speculating about the future of the team. With three wild-card spots available for next year’s Brier, the implications of team changes are significant, especially as teams prepare for the upcoming season.
The intertwining of Ivy’s health journey and the developments in the curling community illustrates the broader narrative of resilience and change in Regina. As Ivy continues to inspire those around her, her story serves as a reminder of the strength found in community support and the importance of awareness for rare diseases.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the future plans for both Ivy and the curling teams, but the community remains hopeful and supportive as they navigate these challenges together. The impact of Ivy’s story is expected to resonate throughout Regina, encouraging discussions about health, resilience, and the importance of supporting children facing similar battles.
