33^rd Annual Miracle Tournament and Celebration Dinner

Treated at UNM Children’s Hospital in Albuquerque, NM.

Natalie’s cancer journey began at the age of ten when her mom noticed her daughter’s visual impairment. She was diagnosed with an Optic Pathway Glioma, a type of cancer that is difficult to treat and can also affect the pituitary gland. After two chemotherapy sessions, the tumor had completely disappeared, and her family rejoiced. She continued chemotherapy for another year as neurologists monitored Natalie.

A few months later, an MRI identified an area of concern and a biopsy confirmed Anaplastic Astrocytoma, a different, more aggressive brain tumor. She immediately and courageously began treatment again, including 30 rounds of proton therapy radiation and 42 rounds of oral chemotherapy.

Although her treatment worked, she was left with hemiparesis, the weakness of her right side weakness, which required two years in physical and occupational therapy. Recently, an MRI detected a new area of concern, this time, in Natalie’s brain stem. To get a biopsy, Natalie needed major surgery to access the tumor through her cerebellum. Doctors found a Germinoma tumor and her family was relieved to learn that the condition is very treatable. Now, Natalie is bravely facing months of chemotherapy again at UNM Children’s Hospital.

Donations to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals benefited Natalie’s highly tailored care throughout her journey.

Treated at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C..

Mason was 12 weeks old when he had open heart surgery at Children’s National Hospital to repair his rare congenital heart condition: Tetralogy of Fallot. Before the surgery, his doctor made a crucial discovery—Mason had only one coronary artery and it was not in the right place—an additional congenital abnormality. While Mason’s care team didn’t know exactly what was to come, his Child Life specialist and Housing & Amenities Coordinator did an amazing job supporting his family during this uncertain time. Little details meant so much to his family, like bringing clothing to Mason’s mom during her stay, explaining things to his seven-year-old sister, and helping his grandparents travel to the hospital from Alabama. Mason is now 13 years old and has had a few surgeries since his initial procedure, and still remains connected to the hospital that saved his life. He loves playing video games, playing the saxophone and piano, making music, DJing and spending time with his family.

Thanks to donations to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, Mason had access to critical cardiac care to repair his heart condition, helping him lead a happy and healthy life.

Treated at St. Rose Dominican Hospital in Las Vegas, NV.

Sixteen years ago, Colbie and Kenna’s parents were excitedly expecting their first children, twin girls. Everything was routine until their mother noticed some discomfort and headed to the hospital. Staff at St. Rose Dominican Hospital quickly determined that something wasn’t right. At 23 weeks and 3 days pregnant, she was slowly leaking amniotic fluid. After doing everything medically possible to delay the birth, the girls were born 15 weeks early. Colbie weighed just 1lb 6oz and Kenna weighed 1lb 5oz. The girls were in the neonatal intensive care unit for 113 days. They each faced their own struggles and were still on oxygen, but one week after their original due date, they were finally able to go home. They continued to grow and develop without any major delays. Today the girls are doing better than ever. Kenna plays competitive soccer and is on the varsity track team. Colbie is part of the National Honors Society and plays the electric guitar. Both girls volunteer for the Unified Special Olympics through their school district.

Thanks to donations to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, Colbie and Kenna had access to lifesaving care in the neonatal intensive care unit after being born 15 weeks prematurely.