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www.htrnews.com | November 2013
Christine Thelen President Hayden’s Batten Disease Foundation Inc.
As president of Hayden’s Batten Disease Foundation Inc., Christine Thelen wants to help children with Batten Disease receive treatment, provide funding for research, and promote awareness of the disease. On January 28, 2008, her daughter Hayden was diagnosed with the rare incurable genetic disorder known as Infantile Batten Disease. She and her husband, Eric, had to watch for months as Hayden regressed and then were told she had the terminal disease. Because the disease is so rare, money and advancement for research is slow. With the help of family and friends, Hayden’s Batten Disease Foundation Inc. was formed. The local foundation has donated more than $150,000 to Batten Disease research. They received an award in 2009 for their fundraising efforts. They have also presented $9,000 in scholarships to graduating high school seniors who have a strong desire to work in a healthcare-related field. Thelen, who has a Certified Public Accountant license, worked in public accounting for 14 years, 11 of which were with LBR Accounting & Tax Service Inc. Although Hayden’s illness does not allow her to work outside the home anymore, she stays up-to-date with the current tax laws and one day would like to have her own practice. Over the years, she has helped out in the community and through her childrens’ schools. Thelen was a member of the Roncalli Athletic Association for two years, serving as co-vice president for one year; secretary of the St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic School Athletic Association for the last eight years; member of St. Peter the Fisherman’s Auction Committee; treasurer of the Two Rivers Family Swim Club for two years; coached track and volleyball at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic School and has helped with basketball and volleyball tournaments. “I believe in youth athletic programs. Sports teach our children teamwork, sportsmanship, unity, cooperation, responsibility and build self-esteem,” she stated. Thelen and her husband live in Two Rivers with their four children: Amanda, 19; Bailey, 10; Hayden, 7; and Tyler, 3. They also have a miniature dachshund named Ellie.
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Case File What was your favorite board game growing up? Why?
My favorite board game growing up was Monopoly, because it is so cut-throat and brings out the true personalities of the players. It teaches you about real estate, managing properties, managing money and bankruptcy.
Do you still play board games? Which ones?
Today, I play Chutes & Ladders and Candy Land with my children.
Did you have a favorite game board character? Who, why? I didn’t have a favorite game board character, but I remember fighting over who was going to be the shoe, iron or top hat when we played Monopoly.
Did your family have a board game night? Do you have a favorite memory from that?
We didn’t have a specific game night set aside, but when the occasion came up we would play board games...snow days.
What was the first video game you played?
The first video game I ever played was Atari Pong, because my Dad was obsessed with it!
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I suggest it was Mrs. Thelen, in the Billiard Room with the Rope
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HAYDEN'S BATTEN DISEASE FOUNDATION, INC. 1708 HAWTHORNE AVE | TWO RIVERS, WI 54241
(920) 553-7308
HAYDENSHOPE@LAKEFIELD.NET
WWW.HELPHAYDEN.COM