It was excitement and pride to be participating in the 2019 CHOC Walk in the Park at the Disneyland Resort on August 11th to raise funds for CHOC Children's Hospital! For those of you who do not know, after graduating from dental school I spent two years at Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City earning my specialty license in pediatric dentistry. The families I met there, the children that I treated and got to know so well - they captured my heart. So much so that I decided to stay and work at the hospital after graduation and I was blessed to continue treating these special children and helping their families for 3 additional years. I wish I could describe the strength, the resiliency, the hope, and the kindness that I was privileged to experience every single day I worked at the hospital. Unfortunately, I also saw the other side of sickness and illness. And although very strong, there were many children and families that had very, very hard days. I learned that it just takes the simplest of acts to help put a smile on a child or family member's face, any act of kindness and showing of love and support helps. This is why I have decided to walk for CHOC and these children and families. I walk in memory and support of all of those families I grew to know and love. The fundraising efforts of the CHOC Walk make an immediate impact on families going through the most challenging time in their lives. CHOC provides the highest level of care not only to patients, but to the siblings, parents, and extended family that make up their critical support teams. Please help me exceed my fundraising goal for the benefit of the children and families of Southern California by: -Donating now by clicking the "Donate" button above or -Joining me at CHOC's magical morning at the Disneyland® Resort by registering now  Even it it's just a dollar, every dollar counts for kids! Many Thanks, Mikaeya