Patient advocate honors late Indianapolis teen by securing a Pearl Jam dedication

In 2023, 17-year-old Keyauna West was diagnosed with aplastic anemia – a rare but serious blood condition that occurs when your bone marrow cannot produce enough new blood cells for the body to function normally. 

During her treatment at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, Keyauna met Heather Wiselogle, MEd, teacher and academic liaison. Heather teaches, advocates for and serves as a liaison for patients of all ages – from preschool to college and beyond – who are receiving long-term medical treatment at the hospital.

Heather and Keyauna quickly formed a close bond. Keyauna’s sister, Paige Woodward, shared, “Keyauna was very shy and reserved. Most times, she would not even talk to a stranger, but the moment Heather walked into her room, she opened up. It was amazing to watch Keyauna open up to someone she had never met before.”

Keyauna shared with Heather and the Make-A-Wish Foundation that her dream was to see Pearl Jam live, and to hopefully meet the band. Sadly, she passed away in 2024 before her wish could come true.

Determined to honor Keyauna’s wish, Heather used every resource to arrange a rare, personal dedication from the band’s lead singer, Eddie Vedder. During their concert this summer at Ruoff Music Center, Eddie Vedder dedicated a special live performance of “Nothingman” to Keyauna, her favorite song. 

Paige shared, “Heather went above and beyond to make sure that even though Keyauna did not get to meet Eddie Vedder, Eddie Vedder met Keyauna.”

The tribute performance created a deeply meaningful memory for Keyauna’s family – an unforgettable moment made possible by Heather’s dedication. 

“Keyauna was a very special student to me, as all are, so when Paige reached out to me to help make this dedication happen, I did not think for a second. I was determined to make this dedication happen and am so honored that I was able to be a part of it,” said Heather. 

In recognition of Heather’s extraordinary commitment to Keyauna and her family, she was awarded the Being Excellent Every Day (BEE) Award, a complement to the DAISY Award for associates who support patient care. Keyauna’s family made a surprise appearance at Heather’s ceremony to thank and celebrate her.

If you or a loved one have experienced quality care from a Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital non-nursing staff member, you can nominate them today for a BEE Award by completing this form.