Children’s Miracle Network

Ten-year-old Ellis Ferrish of PEI is the 2026 Children’s Miracle Network® Champion for the IWK. 

The Children’s Miracle Network® Champion program brings together patients representing children’s hospital foundations across Canada and the United States.  

Throughout 2026, as Champion, Ellis will represent children and youth who receive specialized treatment and care at the IWK. She will share her story to support and inspire fundraising campaigns and events in the Maritimes.  

Ellis was born with a rare form of muscular dystrophy known as RYR-1 Myopathy, which can present a wide range of symptoms, such as muscle weakness, muscle cramping, and pain. Ellis has been receiving specialized care at the IWK since she was a newborn, including body casts, surgeries, and complex spinal procedures. 

While there is no cure, RYR-1 Myopathy is not life-threatening. 

Thanks to the world-class care provided by the IWK, Ellis is a positive and outgoing ten-year-old excited to take on her new role as Champion.  

Ellis and her family will attend Elevate (formerly Children’s Hospitals Week) this spring with other champions and their families from across North America who know first-hand the importance of having access to critical and specialized pediatric care.  

To learn more about Ellis, watch the video at iwkfoundation.org/meet-our-heroes/ellis.