Children's Hospital Colorado

"Junior Reporter" Patients Interview Denver Broncos Players

Some children dream of becoming reporters when they grow up. For a few Children's Hospital Colorado patients, these dreams became reality sooner than they'd ever imagined.

As part of our partnership, Junior Reporters have the opportunity to visit Broncos Headquarters and interview a Denver Broncos football player. Read their stories and about their experiences meeting the Broncos.

Junior Reporter Damien Kowalczyk

Patient Damien Kowalczyk is a 9-year-old who attends our Medical Day Treatment Program due to a kidney disease. Damien loves going on field trips, playing air hockey and gym class. Damien calls his interview with Brandon Marshall the "coolest thing I have done in my life!"

Junior Reporter Blake Cummins

Patient Blake Cummins was born a Broncos fan. His love for the Broncos has helped carry him through his battle with leukemia. After undergoing a bone marrow transplant two years ago, Blake has returned to public school, is the manager of the middle school basketball team and remains an avid Bronco fan. He interviewed Broncos' C.J. Anderson.

Junior Reporter Chandra Barnes

Patient Chandra Barnes loves the Denver Broncos and the Colorado Rockies. She has Noonan syndrome, had a heart transplant 4.5 years ago and currently is in remission from cancer. Chandra loves family time, her dog, playing games and playing with her dolls. She interviewed Denver Broncos' Sylvester Williams.

Junior Reporter Braden Roome

Patient Braden was a fighter from day one. Since the first hour after birth, Braden has braved eight different surgeries. He is now 13 years old and loves learning about the history and statistics of sports. Braden calls his interview with the Denver Broncos "the best day ever!"

Junior Reporter Daniel Hailpern

Patient Daniel Hailpern was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia the day following his middle school graduation. Now at age 15, he has hosted the sports show in our Seacrest Studios, created the popular song parody "Broncos Go," and, most importantly, beat cancer. He said his interview with the Denver Broncos was "awe" inspiring.

Junior Reporter Gabriel (Gabe) Santistevan

Children's Colorado patient Gabe was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a form of brain cancer, at age 9. He didn't let this diagnosis get in the way of his smiles, happiness or his love for football. He is now stable and focused on a new mission: to help other kids in their cancer fight. Gabe describes his interview with the Denver Broncos as "a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."