Alex Boutrous, age 6, is the winning artist in our 22nd Annual Turtle Derby. Alex lives on a hobby farm in North Dakota where he has grown up to love all creatures big and small. His favorite animal is the llama, and he enjoys finding reptiles, including turtles, on the family farm.

In July 2007, Alex was diagnosed with undifferentiated (embryonal) sarcoma, a rare cancerous tumor of the liver, and was treated at University of Minnesota Children’s Hospital, Fairview.

Alex drew his award winning turtle when preparing for a procedure in Pediatric Imaging and Sedation. As Alex waited for anesthesia, he quickly drew his turtle and gave drawing to a nurse to submit for the contest. To Alex and his family’s surprise, he won the contest! “I’m a good artist,” exclaimed Alex when told he won the 2008 Turtle Derby artist contest.

Alex is excited about the win and he and his family look forward to being a part of 2008 Turtle Derby.

Congratulations Alex!

Click here for more information about the Turtle Derby.