But the 5-year-old from Melrose, Minn., was even more overjoyed when she learned her design—a picture of a turtle clad in shoes and emblazoned with hearts—had been selected as the official seal of the 2016 Turtle Derby. The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 23, on the Masonic Children’s Hospital grounds.
We caught up with Sydney and her mother Christie to ask the pair a few questions about their winning design.
When I went in for an appointment, my mommy was talking to the nice lady and she asked me if I liked to draw and I said YES, because I really love to make pictures. Then she said there was a contest and I was very excited!
I made my turtle with hearts because I wanted to show how much I love University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital and Dr. Ingrid Polcari. Dr. Polcari helps to remind me that I am very brave, and that helps me a lot. She is so nice and special, so I drew it how I would draw it for her. I was trying to do my very best, and it was hard because I could not use any crayons, only a pencil. That is very hard because turtles are green and hearts are red.
What was your reaction when you learned your design was chosen?
I was really happy! My mommy told me that there was a message on the answering machine for me. When I heard it I was SO EXCITED! I started to jump up and down, all over. I even screamed a little. “Mommy, is it true, I really won? YES! My dream came true!!” Then I gave everyone hugs!
Are you planning to attend the Turtle Derby later this year to see your design in action?
Yes, and I can hardly wait! My mommy has told me how fun it is and that it raises money to help the hospital help kids. I think that is important because I have a lot of friends that I love at the hospital who need help, including one friend who has epidermolysis bullosa. Plus, I really love parades and turtles too.
Do you enjoy drawing and creative projects? What other interests and hobbies do you have?
I love to draw and color because I get to use my imagination. I make pictures all of the time for my family and teachers, especially Mrs. Maus. I also like to go to gymnastics, go to school, play with my friends and I sing and dance too. I really like to make people smile and laugh.