Five Questions with Miss Indiana 2024
Before Kalyn Melham was crowned Miss Indiana 2024, she was a cardiology patient at Riley Children’s Health. Now she is using her platform to give back, and we are delighted to welcome her as a special guest at the Red for our Kids gala on March 8. Learn more about Kalyn’s Riley story and why she says she looks up to other Riley kids.
Tell us a little bit about your Riley story.
I was a six-year-old patient diagnosed with Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) which required a cardiac catheterization. Dr. Hoyer and his team did such successful work that I was able to go home that day. I would not live a healthy, normal life without my visit to Riley.
What does it mean to you to be Miss Indiana?
Miss Indiana is an opportunity to be a light. I’ve learned that service can be as big as raising thousands of dollars for charitable causes, but it can also be as small as a smile and make just as big of a difference. This privilege is not an experience I will ever take for granted. It means the world to me that God has given me a platform to spread positivity, relatability, and love.
If you could send a message of encouragement to other Riley kids, what would you say?
I would say, “You inspire me. You have a 23-year-old girl who walks around in a sash and crown who looks up to you because you’re brave. I learn so much from you and I will always turn to stories like yours when looking for motivation to be resilient.”
What are you most excited about at the Red for our Kids gala?
I’m excited to dress up and mingle with the [Riley] kiddos! It is a guaranteed great time. I know my experience at Riley was pivotal for my health and well-being, but I had a very smooth sailing process. A lot of other kids don’t have that and I’m going to give everything I have to ensure that they have a fun night.
Why is it important for our community to support Riley?
My mind immediately goes to the kids that I met on the cardiac floor [at the hospital] last month. Some of these children have been waiting an entire year to have a heart transplant. They’re still smiling bright and living life to the fullest. They NEED community support. Those smiles could easily fade without community. I believe it is our civic duty to do what we can to help hospitals whether that is through funding research, lending a hand at the Child Life Zone, or donating items for the kids. Riley Hospital changes lives.