Opening Ceremonies 2026

Aidan Abbott

Nominated by Arun Gosain, MD

Born with the rare congenital condition x-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, Aidan Abbott spent his childhood fighting for the medically necessary care insurance repeatedly denied. He and his family never accepted those barriers.

Instead, he became an advocate who inspired and champions the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA) in Congress to improve access to medically necessary reconstructive treatment for others born with craniofacial differences.

He is currently pursuing a career in nursing so he can care for others in the same way his medical team helped him navigate through his medical journey. Aidan continues to turn his personal challenges into a life of service and advocacy, proving that courage is not only overcoming hardship, but using it to create a better future for others.

Christine A. Barnish

Nominated by Venkat Rao, MD

Christine Barnish refused to let her injury define her future after losing four fingers on her right hand during a riding lawn mower accident. An innovative toe-to-hand transplant restored form and function to her hand, allowing her to pursue everything from sports to music.

Christine became a middle school language arts teacher who shared her story with students to encourage them to believe in themselves even when life is challenging. She continues to inspire young people to overcome adversity, silence self-doubt and prove that there is nothing they can't do by now working at her school’s counseling office.

Jennifer Trettner

Nominated by Kenneth Kneessy, MD

Breast cancer and reconstructive surgery challenged both her body and spirit, but Jennifer Trettner refused to let it define her future. She relied on exercise to rebuild her strength, restore her confidence and reclaim a sense of control during recovery.

Jennifer was inspired to become a certified Cancer Exercise Specialist and created Warrior Workouts, helping other breast cancer survivors regain their health, hope and independence. She continues to prove with unwavering compassion that healing extends far beyond treatment and that no one should face cancer alone.