There are no words to express or even explain the thanks and gratitude to the people that helped nurture Sydney Ann Eilers into the wonderful, loving person that she grew up to be.

On May 23, 1998, Sydney arrived in this world to Dan and Beth Eilers in a similar fashion as her older brother Austin—with a rare genetic disorder. She and Austin together became the only Chromosome 9p- “Irish Twins” in the world… that we know of.

Sydney was immediately rushed to the NICU at Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa, to be placed into the loving care of nurses, physicians, and other providers that tended to her demanding medical needs. Although we didn’t know the condition at the time, medical attention surrounded her. We knew we were in a special place when we found out that Dr. Hopkins came out of retirement to perform a very rare hernia repair. We will never forget this. Thank you to the entire NICU team.

Over the next few months, Sydney was placed into the miraculous caring hands of several clinicians and specialists at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, including neurosurgeon Dr. Meneses. Our thanks go out to you and the other specialists participating in her tenuous and delicate procedure. Thank you to the geneticists, genealogists, and Dr. Canady (and crew) in the Dept. of Otolaryngology.

As Sydney grew up, she attended multiple schools within Waukee, Iowa. There she encountered many wonderful caring teachers, associates—including Miss Jeanine, faculty, staff, and of course Coach V. Thank you for all your dedicated hard work. Not only did you enrich Sydney’s life (as well as all of her classmates) you all shed light on what it means to have “special needs”. You helped demystify special needs “stigma” to their fellow students. Keep up the good work!

Throughout the years, Sydney would impact just about anybody she encountered—whether they wanted to meet her or not. Sydney was not afraid to “introduce” herself into just about any social circle. Thank you to all our family, friends/neighbors, (and strangers) who generously let Sydney into their world. (This includes the ever-loving “Nell Hug.”) You brought a very precious smile to Sydney’s heart that she was not always able to verbalize. A special “shout out” to her “sisters,” Brittney and Hillary (and many others from over the years). Also a special thank you to Jesse—even though you always left her hair way too long when you cut it (IMO).

Over the years, Sydney encountered new friends through various programs including Child Serve, Vodec, Courage League, Miracle League, Tim Tebow’s “Night to Shine,” Best Buddies, and ONE Body at Lutheran Church of Hope.

Sydney fought the ailments that accompanied her condition. She fought hard. She taught many of us how to fight hard when overcoming our challenges. After numerous hospital visits and multiple medical procedures, Sydney passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2025, to spend more time with Jesus.

We were blessed to have Sydney be in the caring warmth of so many in the medical community here in Des Moines, including: UnityPointe Health, Iowa Methodist Hospital, Hospitals at Home, Depts. of Pulmonology, Hematology/Oncology, Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Interventional Radiology. (And especially the housekeeping staff who would quietly pray over Sydney as they swept the floor in her hospital rooms.)

And a very special “Thank You” to the entire holistic, collaborative approach from those at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Sydney is survived by her mom, Beth Eilers; dad, Dan Eilers; and brother, Austin Eilers. Also surviving are her grandmother, Bette Eilers; her uncles, Joe Eilers and Bill Schutter; her aunts, Beth Haynes, Diane Gruber, Katie Baietto, Barry Eilers, and Rita Schutter; her cousins, Kyle Haynes, Matt Haynes, Ryan Baietto, Joe Baietto, Andrew Gruber, Grace Eilers, Henry Eilers, Ethan Schutter, and Haley Schutter; and several second cousins.

She was preceded in death by grandparents Vernon and Shirley Schutter and Jim Eilers.

Please join the Eilers’ family at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines, Iowa. Date: Saturday, March 1st. Time: Visitation 9:00 a.m.; Service: 11:00 a.m. Luncheon following immediately after service.

For those unable to join us in person, please join us virtually.

In memory of Sydney: If you see someone that doesn’t necessarily have the same abilities as you, go ahead and introduce yourself. Reach out to them. They want to have fun and need friends just like you do.

…So, to all you cheerleaders out there… Never let anyone dull your Sparkle! (Thanks Mara!)

Expanding on Sydney’s Impact

Sydney Ann Eilers’ life was a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of community support. Her journey highlights the critical role that healthcare providers, educators, and community programs play in the lives of individuals with special needs.

Sydney’s experience with the NICU at Blank Children’s Hospital and the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics underscores the importance of specialized medical care. These institutions not only provided essential medical treatments but also offered emotional support to the family. Dr. Hopkins’ decision to come out of retirement to perform a rare hernia repair exemplifies the dedication and compassion of medical professionals.

In the realm of education, Sydney’s time in Waukee, Iowa, schools demonstrated the transformative power of inclusive education. Teachers and staff like Miss Jeanine and Coach V. played a pivotal role in creating an environment where Sydney could thrive. Their efforts to demystify special needs stigma are a model for schools across the country.

Community programs such as Child Serve, Vodec, Courage League, Miracle League, Tim Tebow’s “Night to Shine,” Best Buddies, and ONE Body at Lutheran Church of Hope provided Sydney with a rich social life. These programs not only offered her new friendships but also reinforced the idea that everyone deserves to have fun and be included.

Sydney’s legacy serves as a reminder that individuals with special needs are not defined by their conditions but by their spirit and the love they bring to those around them. Her story encourages us to reach out to those who may be different from us, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Recent Developments and Practical Applications

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on inclusive education and community programs for individuals with special needs. Programs like Best Buddies and Tim Tebow’s “Night to Shine” have expanded their reach, providing more opportunities for social interaction and support. These initiatives are crucial in breaking down barriers and promoting understanding.

Medical advancements have also brought new hope for individuals with rare genetic disorders. Research into Chromosome 9p- syndrome and other genetic conditions continues to progress, offering potential treatments and improved quality of life. Organizations like the Chromosome Disorder Outreach (CDO) provide invaluable resources and support for families navigating these challenges.

Sydney’s story is a poignant reminder of the importance of community support and the role that individuals can play in making a difference. Her legacy encourages us to be more inclusive, empathetic, and proactive in supporting those with special needs. As we remember Sydney, let us strive to create a more compassionate world where everyone feels valued and included.

Addressing Counterarguments

Some may argue that providing specialized care and inclusive programs is resource-intensive and may divert resources from other critical areas. However, the benefits of such initiatives far outweigh the costs. Inclusive education and community support not only improve the lives of individuals with special needs but also foster a more compassionate and understanding society.

Moreover, the economic and social costs of exclusion and lack of support are significant. Individuals with special needs who are not adequately supported may face higher rates of unemployment, social isolation, and health issues. Investing in inclusive programs and specialized care is a long-term investment in the well-being of our communities.

Conclusion

Sydney Ann Eilers’ life was a beacon of love, resilience, and community support. Her journey highlights the importance of specialized medical care, inclusive education, and community programs in supporting individuals with special needs. As we remember Sydney, let us strive to create a more inclusive and compassionate world where everyone feels valued and included.