LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – A longtime supporter and hero of the Children’s Miracle Network broadcast died suddenly last week.
Darren Echols, 30, spent his life in a wheelchair and grew up under the care of well-known pediatrician Dr. Doug Klepper.
He would’ve turned 31 next month. KCBD’s Karin McCay and Abner Euresti visited last year to celebrate his milestone 30th birthday.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: CMN Hero Darren Echols celebrates 30 years
Keppler said, “Darren was a good and kind soul. His belief in other people and the good of all mankind went beyond his physical restraints.”
Echols was born 10 weeks early with cerebral palsy. Over the years, he had 15 surgeries and numerous close calls, including sepsis.
Klepper, who retired last year, said Echols was always a delightful individual with a smile on his face.
For most of his 30 years, Echols joined the Children’s Miracle Network broadcast at the end of every telethon on KCBD. He literally grew up on the telethon, getting a little bigger every year in his wheelchair.
He sometimes banged on the drums when a drum roll was called to announce how much money had been raised for kids.
“With CMN he really found a home that he could express that joy that he found in life despite what his limitations were in life,” Klepper said. “He was always there at the end, banging for the telethon. That was one of his favorite moments in his life.”
On Thursday, Echols suddenly stopped breathing. His stepfather gave him CPR until EMS arrived, but they could not bring him back.
A GoFundMe account has been set up in his name to cover the cost of a service to celebrate his life. To donate, click here.
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