About the Fund

The Prefontaine Fund provides resources through contributions and special events that create opportunities to promote the health and confidence of children and young adults at Franciscan Hospital for Children. 

The Prefontaine Family

When Nick was a patient at Franciscan Hospital for Children and was finally able to think about getting back to school after his coma, it was important to the Prefontaine Family to have him receive some type of teaching or tutoring. Unfortunately, that was not available at the Hospital due to a lack of funding.

If made available, a full time educator at Franciscan Children's Hospital will provide children with an easier transition back to ‘normal’ life and education. Up-to-date physical fitness equipment for physical therapy is a very present need at Franciscan Hospital.  When Nick was a patient at the Hospital for instance, he was too tall for most of the wheelchairs. In 2004, the Prefontaine Family acquired a used wheelchair that cost more than $3000. 

The Prefontaine Family describes its visit to Franciscan Hospital during Nick's recovery process as profound and incredibly positive.  As a result of this experience, the dream to help children and families in similar situations was born.

Click here to read Nick's story as told by his father >>