The Mark Staehely Toy Drive

Mark accomplished many things in his short life, but if you asked Mark what he was most proud of he would always answer without hesitation "my annual toy drive for Children's Memorial Hospital". This event has distinguished itself as one of Mark's most special accomplishments, because the Staehely family will always personally continue the event in Mark's memory.

After Mark's diagnosis in June of 2000, he spent every major holiday that year in the hospital. Seeing the sadness in the faces of the children hospitalized over Christmas, he made it his mission and his dream that every child would have toys at Christmas.

In 2001 he enlisted the help of family and friends to take toys to Children's Memorial at Christmas. He collected 150 toys and delivered them to the oncology floor. Seeing the smiles and happiness the toys brought to the children, he decided that he could do more. What started as 150 toys in 2001 grew to over 13,000 toys in 2005–enough toys for every child in the hospital.

During the final weeks of Mark's life he made his family promise that his beloved toy drive would always continue–"No Matter What". Family and friends made a commitment to honor Mark's wish, and with Mark looking down, they were able to deliver over 18,000 toys in 2006. Mark's toy drive has become the largest toy drive in Children's Memorial history. Mark would be so happy, as the toy drive was truly his heart.

"It's all about giving! What could be better?" - Mark Staehely

The Mark Staehely Treasure Chest Program

In December 2005 Mark's Treasure Chest program was established. A treasure chest was built and delivered to the Children's Memorial Hospital Oncology/Hematology Department at the hospital. Mark's criteria was very simple–you had to be a child in the hospital. That was the only criterion needed to get a toy 365 days a year, anytime of the day or night. That was Mark's wish. The program was so successful that in November 2006, the Treasure Chest Program was established at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in the Radiology/Oncology Department so that children undergoing radiation therapy always had access to a toy.

"To give a toy is such a small part, but I hope it helps from the bottom of my heart." (Written by Mark in 2005)

George D. Kennedy Leadership Award

At the November 29, 2005 annual meeting of the Children's Memorial Board of Directors, CEO and president Patrick M. Magoon, on behalf of the Board, presented Mark with the Kennedy Leadership Award in recognition of his contributions to the patients and families of Children's Memorial.

"It's not the duration of your life, but the donation of it." - Mark Staehely

Hometown Hero Award

The American Red Cross of Chicago selected Mark as their "2005 Youth Good Samaritan Hometown Hero" winner. Mark was recognized by the Red Cross for "his influential impact on the community and selfless dedication to others".

"If you give in life, it comes back one hundred times over." - Mark Staehely

WGN Kid of the Week Award

In December 2004, Mark was awarded the "Kid of the Week" award by WGN Radio personality Steve Cochran.

"Always try to do the right thing in life." - Mark Staehely

WLS–TV Someone You Should Know

In 2004, Mark was named "Someone You Should Know" by WLS–TV's Harry Porterfield.

"Why me? Why not me!" - Mark Staehely

WMIX Featured Speaker

Mark was one of the featured speakers at the annual WMIX Radio–thon for Children's Memorial Hospital, hosted by "The Mix" radio personalities Eric and Kathy.

"Love without fear; Live without fear." - Mark Staehely