My name is Nina Daigle, and I am so excited to be a Youth Ambassador again for the 2026 Star Gala! 

I am a senior at UW-Eau Claire, where I'm studying biology on the pre-veterinary medicine track. Children's Minnesota has been a huge part of my life since I was born, and it's truly the reason I am alive today, and that's why it means so much to me to raise funds for such an important and special place. This year, the gala benefits the mental health programs.

When I was a baby, I was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that has required me to spend many days in the hospital and its clinics. As a child, I always had very high levels of anxiety, especially in medical settings. Child Life, a part of the mental health program at Childrens, was always there for me, offering support and distraction for every MRI, needle, and procedure. They helped make what could have been a terrifying experience a little more bearable. My mom was also a Child Life Specialist for many years before I was born! 

When I was 17, doctors discovered a tumor at the base of my brain that was pressing on my brain stem, blocking the flow of spinal fluid. I had constant migraines that prevented me from enjoying my senior year and all the things I loved to do.  I received life-saving brain surgery on December 22nd, 2021. They even played my favorite Taylor Swift album during my surgery!

I was only supposed to be in the hospital for a day or two afterward, but due to many complications, my stay was extended, and I ended up being in the hospital until late Christmas Day. Child Life and the Pet Therapy program all made an impact and made me feel like I wasn't missing any holiday festivities. 

Just a few weeks after my surgery, I was back to enjoy all of the things I loved. I am so lucky that I was able to receive care from Children’s, one of the highest-quality medical centers in the nation.  One of the most important things that came out of this was that my procedure was successful enough that I did not need a shunt placement. I LOVE horses and run a horse program in California during the summers. Shunts can make riding horses very difficult and, in some cases, impossible. 

Mental health is often overlooked, but not at Children’s. Anxiety and depression are much more common in people with NF than in the general population.  The stigma that those diagnoses carry can have a negative impact on one’s life. 

I want to thank all of the child life specialists, nurses (especially Autumn!), and the saving grace of Jesus for all they have done. I am so grateful for what Children’s Minnesota has done for me, and I hope you’ll consider making a (tax-deductible!) donation to my fundraiser so that more children can experience the comfort and support they need during life-altering times. 

This is my 3rd and final year of being a Youth Ambassador for Children’s, and it has meant the world to me to give back. I'd appreciate your help reaching my $2000 goal and making a lasting impact on the mental health program.