Dairy Queen: Making a Difference for Kids at UI Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital

Throughout the year, DQ® fans demonstrate commitment to creating memorable moments and making a difference in how University Of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital through Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals cares for kids. DQ® doesn’t just have food and treats that put a smile on your face– DQ® creates meaningful moments for kids and families in our community.

Participating DQ® locations invite you starting June 1st to buy a balloon and provide needed funds for local member hospitals to help bring health and hope for kids treated at University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

Children are at the center of everything we do and building a strong foundation for their tomorrow needs to start today. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals see what the future can be, and with support from you and DQ®, we can fund the most urgent needs at University of Iowa Health Care Children’s Hospital.

Your donations help Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals support the health of kids like Piper, who has benefited from the care made possible through generous donations.

Piper was diagnosed with Esophageal Atresia (EA) at 25 weeks gestation, meaning her esophagus and stomach were not connected. Born full term, she spent 173 days in the NICU and underwent multiple surgeries, including emergency surgery at 8 days old due to a stomach perforation. Throughout her hospital stay, she faced serious complications like lung collapses, pneumonia, and GI issues. At 3½ months, surgeons connected her esophagus and stomach, though the procedure was difficult due to earlier complications.

Following the NICU, Piper continued to struggle with feeding, requiring G/J tube support and frequent hospitalizations. She’s had over 55 surgeries, including 44 esophageal dilatations, and numerous medical treatments and therapies. Despite her ongoing medical needs, including the use of a G-tube and specialty care, Piper shows incredible resilience and strength in her recovery.

Together, we can bring health, hope, and happiness to kids in our community. Stop at a participating DQ® from June 1-July 31 and give today so University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital can continue helping our children lead healthy, fulfilling lives, while also bringing joy and happiness tomorrow.

When we change kids’ health, we change the future – for all of us.