We PROUDLY award the Hawkins Family of Peoria, Arizona, our 2012 Macaroni Kid’s Fittest Family!
Their strength and perseverance amazed, inspired, and captivated us. To say that this family is ‘dealing with a lot’ is an understatement. They truly are a team of fighters; we can all learn from their determination and their dedication to each other.
Eight year-old Kiley underwent surgery to remove a brain tumor, while studying in a Spanish immersion program, dancing at a local dance academy, trying out for the Phoenix Sundance Kids Dance Team, and being the incredible daughter and sister who amazes her own family with her ongoing strength and optimism. Kiley (in addition to having a great name!) has overcome this obstacles and continues to take on new adventures and dance her heart out as doctors carefully monitor her health.
Unfortunately, this is not the only setback the Hawkins family has had to endure. Mom, Christina, has dealt with Crohn’s disease since being diagnosed at age 13. Three years ago, she was diagnosed with PSC of the liver, (Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis) chronic liver damage resulting from the Crohn’s medications; the only cure being a liver transplant, which she continues to await. Christina has been in and out of the hospital, most recently spending eight days in the ICU earlier this month. While she has good days and bad, Christina will be the first to tell you that she “refuses to miss out on ANY of her kids’ and family’s life."
This waiting game involves no sitting around at all. Not only does Christina remain hopeful for herself, her daughter, and her family, she has chosen to live no other way. The Hawkins refuse to let these obstacles get in the way of living every day to the fullest, together, as a family. They enjoy nothing more than being together as a family. Christina states: "although we were not given the best of the gene pool, we have a healthy life because what do, we do together.”
The Hawkins Kids are certainly key members of the team. Nathan (who turns six this weekend, Happy Birthday Nathan!) loves all sports (soccer, football, baseball, basketball and skateboarding) and has a passion for magic. Kiley teaches us that: no matter how bad it is, no matter what you’re going through, or what you’re watching others endure, JUST DANCE, because you have each other, and because you can.
Christina credits her husband, Matt, for being “the ROCK” of the family; a very hard-worker and supportive father who happens to be a Phoenix Suns Dancing Dad! Christina and Matt set the pace for their family. Whatever the activity may be, from roller-skating, hiking, swimming, dancing, to fitness fundraisers and playing competitive sports, this family puts health and fitness first!
The Hawkins Family reminds us that above all else, there is nothing more valuable than family. Not even an Olympic medal, the first thousand shares of Facebook stock, perfect grades, or hitting the lottery. Please join us in congratulating and celebrating the Hawkins Family! We wish them good health, speedy recoveries, and many years of family enjoyment, fitness, and fun, as they continue on their journey!
Pack your bags, Hawkins, you’re off to spend seven days at the Four Seasons Scottsdale!
xoxo,
Kiley and the MK Team
