FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
jAN. 21, 2009
ST. JOHN’S PEDIATRIC NEUROSURGEON AWARDS BIKE, FREE HELMET
cOLORING BOOK TO BE USED to teach safety lessons
Hailey Pratt, age 9, of Nixa, will be riding new wheels thanks to her
artwork for a St. John’s coloring book. Hailey designed the winning
entry in a challenge to create a picture that shows the importance of
wearing a helmet. She will receive a new bicycle and helmet at an awards
reception 6 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23 at St. John’s Hammons Heart Institute
Multipurpose Room, 1235 E. Cherokee.
St. John’s pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Sami Khoshyomn issued the
challenge last month and Hailey’s design will be featured on the cover
of the coloring book and displayed at Battlefield Mall.
“One of my many jobs is to take care of kids after they have had a head
injury from not wearing a helmet,” Dr. Khoshyomn explained. “This
coloring book will help us educate kids and parents about its
importance.”
The book will be distributed to local schools, pediatric clinics and
other organizations active in getting the word out about protection to
prevent brain injury. Pam Holt, RN, St. John’s Trauma Injury Prevention
education coordinator, will also distribute the book at educational
presentations throughout the area.
Runners up in the contest,which drew more than 1000 entries, will also
receive recognition Friday. They include: Matt Laughery, age 12, Mt.
Vernon; Samuel Senn, age 11, Springfield; Kassondra Garcia, age 10,
Monett; Sariah Reed, age 8, Verona; Katelyn Collins, age 7, Springfield;
Abbey Parten, age 6, Republic; Ryder Boles, age 5, Dexter; Sarah
Thompson, age 4, Ozark and Sharaiah Lee, age 3, Billings.
Dr. Khoshyomn, the region’s only pediatric neurosurgeon, said the
incidence of traumatic brain injury in the area has been on the rise
since he came to St. John’s several years ago.
The coloring book will be available to educators at no cost in the
Spring. Please call 417-820-5150 to reserve copies.
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For media information, contact St. John’s Media Relations at
417-820-2426 or
cora.scott@mercy.net.