Max and Jake's Big Race was started by Jerilyn Hammerstrom and Paula Cook, the mothers of Max and Jake.  They were inspired by the care their boys received at Rady Children's Hospital Heart Institute and are grateful for the opportunity to give back.
	Max Max went to Rady Children's Heart Institute at 3 months old to check out a common heart murmur. He was diagnosed with Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD). While hoping the hole in his heart would close on its own, he became symptomatic.  At 14 months, he underwent open heart surgery by Dr. Jolene Kriett to repair the hole. Today as a vibrant third grader, you would never know what he went through. He loves life, his family, friends, skateboarding, surfing, and the Padres. During the seven years since his surgery at Rady Children's Heart Institute, his family has come across many other kids, and some adults, who have had heart surgery as kids. They have offered their personal experience with this too-common, life-saving surgery as an inspirational example to friends who also face surgery with their children.  May his active, happy nature serve as a source of encouragement and a reminder of how precious life is.
	Jake Jake was diagnosed with Sinus Venosus Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) at the age of 18 months. Looking at Jake, you would never imagine that anything was wrong with him. He was spirited, good natured and full of life. But inside his chest was a condition - that if not treated - promised to cause trouble down the road, including cutting Jake's life short. The only treatment option was open-heart surgery to repair the hole in his atrium and the anomalous veins leading to his heart. At the age of 2, Jake successfully underwent the operation by Dr. John Lamberti of Rady Children's Heart Institute. Thanks to the operation and the care he received, he can expect to live a long, healthy life. The experience had a profound impact on Jake. He came away more self-assured, stronger and more determined - and just as full of life as ever. As an active 4 year old, he enjoys riding his bike, building things, and playing superheroes.

 Benefiting
Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego