About PHF

FOUNDING MEMBERS

President- Kim Illions
Vice President- Michael Illions

On July 25th, 2005 at 8:11am our little miracle baby boy Cole, came into the world. Weighing just 7lbs, 4 oz, the baby that we were told wouldn’t survive, went immediately to the “well” nursery. Yes, he was born with Hydrocephalus, but to us and everyone who would come to know him, he was perfect in every way.

On the second day of his life, Cole had his first shunt placed. He came through surgery with flying colors. That turned out to be the first of several surgeries to combat problems due to Hydrocephalus. From even before Cole was born we were searching for answers and a support system on this condition called Hydrocephalus.

With the assistance of Cole’s Doctor and Nurses at his hospital, we were asked to be the parent liaisons to a new first of its kind in New Jersey Hydrocephalus support group serving the Tri-state area.

Working with other families, we are committed to funding a cure for Hydrocephalus and have started the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation with that goal in mind. Our mission is to offer support and strength to other families dealing with Hydrocephalus, and with your help we will be successful.

Bella Sacharczyk – Board of Directors; Massachusetts

I am a daughter, a sister, and a loving girlfriend but most of all I am a Hydro hero who is
constantly told “you can’t” and “you won’t” and I have made it my life’s mission to “do” and
“accomplish” everything and anything I set my mind to.

Like many of my Hydro Heroes, I have my own unique journey with hydrocephalus. I have my own struggles and obstacles, but it wasn’t until January 2014 when my mother and I found the PHF that I realized I was not alone in my journey. At that point, I began owning and sharing my story and struggles.

I began fundraising and soon became the Massachusetts chapter director with my mother Denise Sacharczyk. Now a decade after finding and joining the PHF, I am a soon-to-be graduate with a bachelor’s degree in biology with plans to pursue a career in research in which I plan to focus on early brain development and the development and treatment of hydrocephalus.

I will forever be grateful for the PHF and all they do. They have played a huge role in all that I have accomplished, and I am honored to serve as a Member of the Board.

Heather Shanks – Board of Directors; Michigan

Hello, my name is Heather Shanks. I am from Michigan, and I am mom to Clara, who has congenital Hydrocephalus. Clara was diagnosed with hydrocephalus when I was 19 weeks pregnant. I am a middle school social studies teacher by profession. My family has supported and volunteered to work with the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation since Clara was born over seven years ago. We appreciate being a part of a supportive community, while also being able to fundraise and choose where our funds go.

Having a choice in research empowers us and gives us hope of a brighter future for Clara. Our entire community has hosted various events such as restaurant tip nights, raffles, and annual walks. While our events take time and effort, the support and outcome are phenomenal. We look forward to this year, and hope it brings change, medical breakthroughs, and a stronger community.