Bozeman Student With Rare Condition Honored As Shodair Children’s Hospital Champion Child

BOZEMAN, Mont. – A local high school student, Luke Rivenbark, is being recognized for his resilience and determination in overcoming significant challenges.  

Luke has been named the Shodair Children’s Hospital Champion Child for 2026, an honor highlighting his journey and strength.  

Luke, like any other 16-year-old, enjoys sports and spending time with friends. 

However, his life has been uniquely challenging due to a rare genetic condition known as Haynes Sproul-Jackson syndrome.

This condition leads to physical difficulties like genetic mutations and fragile bones that can often lead to fractures. 

In living with this condition, Luke has experienced these hardships firsthand.

His mother shared that in battling Haynes Sproul-Jackson syndrome, Luke has previously broken bones in his legs, leading him to be wheelchair bound for a year and a half. 

Luke's mother, Jennifer Rivenbark, shared the family's journey to a diagnosis.  

"We were able to get a diagnosis. So, he has a form of microcephalic dwarfism. It’s also been named as Haynes Sproul-Jackson syndrome, so very rare," she said.  

The Rivenbark family discovered Shodair Children’s Hospital after a decade of searching for answers.  

"Shodair has played a very integral part in his care, but also even just getting a diagnosis," Jennifer said.  

The hospital directed them to researchers at Baylor University, providing Luke with essential medical care.  

Luke was celebrated for his recognition as the 2026 Champion Child at a winter assembly at Gallatin High School, where he received a standing ovation lasting more than five minutes.  

Jennifer expressed her gratitude and emotion, saying, "It’s huge, it warms my heart, you can’t help but smile. Obviously, I can’t help but cry about it. But it's just knowing that all of these kids cheering him on are accepting him."  

Luke Rivenbark's recognition as the Shodair Champion Child is a testament to his courage, bravery and the support of his community.