Kids and families across the region made the summer a little sweeter for Connecticut Children’s when they hosted Sip Stands throughout the month of July 2021. They took a simple summertime tradition—the front yard stand featuring lemonade or another favorite “sip”—and elevated it for a good cause.

Six-year-old Michael Ramsdell set up shop at a local farmer’s market. Serving up three kinds of lemonade and cupcakes, Michael’s Lemonade Squad raised more than $1,500 for the Greatest Need Children’s Fund, which has a special meaning to him and his family.

Born at 27 weeks and weighing just two pounds, eight ounces, Michael spent the first 98 days of his life in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Connecticut Children’s. Those early days were dicey, as he struggled with heart defects and brain bleeds. Fast-forward to today, and Michael is an energetic, happy and hilarious first-grader. He gets around in his wheelchair, and with his ongoing physical and occupational therapy, he is doing incredibly well.

“We chose to host a Sip Stand for Connecticut Children’s to show our support and gratitude for everything they did and continue to do for my son, Michael,” said Amannda Ramsdell. “Our experience hosting a stand was amazing! It was so much fun to watch the boys sell the lemonade and know they were playing a huge part in the fundraiser. The interaction and response made me feel that much more grateful!”

In its inaugural year, Sip Stands generated nearly $20,000 for the Greatest Need Children’s Fund. Plans are already stirring up for next summer. To learn more about Sip Stands 2022, please contact our events team.