2026 Riley Kid
Our 2026 Riley Kid for Bop to the Top is 3 year old Tate Jones of Indianapolis! Born in December 2022, Tate was diagnosed with Tracheoesophageal Fistula (TEF), a rare condition in which the esophagus and trachea are abnormally connected.
Just three days after birth, he underwent a 4.5-hour life-saving surgery at Riley Children's Hospital to repair the defect.
Thanks to the expert care of Riley’s surgical team and NICU staff, Tate recovered much quicker than expected—spending only two weeks in the NICU before going home. “The care and support we received from the nurses, surgical team, and everyone at Riley was incredible,” said TJ, Tate's father. “Tate has healed so well and continues to be an absolute joy. Riley is a special place.”
The Jones family remains deeply grateful to Riley Hospital for Children and is committed to giving back to support the NICU and other families facing similar challenges.
