Meet Kolton
Kolton was born on December 8th 2024 at just 22 weeks, weighing 1 lb 4.3 oz. With many difficult challenges seconds after he was born, Kolton defied the odds. He was a bright light whose smile could light up every room. Although his journey on earth ended on June 13th 2026 at just 18 months old, the love, joy and strength he shared left a lifetime of memories for everyone who knew him. Throughout his courageous fight, he spent a majority of his life at Riley Children’s Hospital. While there he taught those around him the true meaning of resilience, hope, and unconditional love. The 18 months he lived on earth weren’t defined by hospital walls and medical devices but by finding joy in being silly with his nurses or enjoying a bath and cuddles.
Kolton had a special love for Mickey Mouse, bright colors, laughter and his sister crying made him giggle. Kolton underwent tracheostomy surgery and a feeding tube placed while his lungs were trying to heal, he also had poor vision even after undergoing ROP surgery in his eye. Since he was born so early he suffered traumatic brain injuries that also lead to needing more support. Through everything it never stopped him. During his 540 days he spent in the hospital he went under 3 major surgeries, countless procedures, treatments and tons of set backs, yet he continued to smile. He didn’t choose this battle but, it’s what was dealt to him.
Kolton had a way of bringing people together with his infectious smile and wild spirit, reminding us to celebrate every moment no matter how big or small. We wished everyone got to meet this special soul.
When we lost Kolton, our hearts broke in ways we never imagined possible. But even in our deepest grief, we knew his story couldn’t end there. His life deserved to continue making a difference.
That’s why we created Kolton’s Klubhouse. This foundation is a promise to our son that his smile will never be forgotten. It is a way to honor the incredible little boy who changed our lives forever. Every child deserves to feel supported and every family deserves hope while navigating long hospital admissions. If Kolton taught us anything, it’s that even the smallest hands can leave the biggest handprints on the world.
Kolton’s Klubhouse Foundation was created to honor his beautiful life and continue the kindness he shared so effortlessly. Our mission is to sponsor families in the NICU, PICU, and Pulmonary floors where Kolton spent much of his time. Our mission is to sponsor Christmas and make it as personal as possible! Each gift will be personalized to match the elected child and ensure the gifts are age appropriate and align with any medical conditions they may have. Christmas was always one of Kolton’s favorite times of the year. His room was always decorated and he never fell short of having everything he needed and more.
One of our highest priorities is making sure every gift purchased through the foundation and the generosity of our donors is something each child can truly use and enjoy. While every donated gift is given with love and kindness, children facing complex medical conditions similar to Koltons conditions often have unique limitations. Some toys may not be compatible with their medical conditions, equipment, developmental abilities and on going care. By carefully selecting gifts tailored to each childs individual needs, we can ensure your donations create meaningful moments of joy, comfort, and inclusion.
