33^rd Annual Miracle Tournament and Celebration Dinner

Treated at Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters in Norfolk, VA.

At 11 years old, Sam’s parents noticed that something wasn’t quite right. The energetic, competitive tennis player said he felt tired all the time and was often cold, his appetite disappeared and he lost some weight. His pediatrician ordered bloodwork and a few hours later, called the family and asked them to bring Sam immediately to the emergency department at Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD). Sam was diagnosed with T-cell leukemia and had a mass in his lungs, close to his heart. Sam was admitted to CHKD and immediately started treatment. A week later, his mass was barely visible. Although he was discharged, Sam returned to CHKD several more times over the next year for additional treatment. During his nine hospital stays, Sam realized how fortunate he was to have his mom and dad with him every step of the way. He decided that when his cancer treatment was over, he wanted to help other families by fundraising for CHKD. Two years after his initial trip to the emergency department, Sam was in remission and had raised more than $100,000 to help families with a child in the hospital. Today, Sam is back in school and focused on getting stronger. His family says they are incredibly thankful for Sam’s recovery, the staff at CHKD, and everyone who has donated to help CHKD patients and families.

Thanks to donations to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, Sam received quick, lifesaving treatment for his T-cell leukemia and is a strong, healthy 15-year-old.

Treated at Johns Hopkins Children's Center in Baltimore, MD.

Before Emerson (Emme) was born at 25 weeks, she and her twin sister, Elle, were given a 10-15% chance of survival. At Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, Emme had her first brain surgery at 21 days old. She was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy, and she recently underwent seven brain surgeries including a right lobe hemispherectomy to help with seizures and motor function. Despite her long, tough journey, Emme continues to conquer every challenge that comes her way. She has found comfort in the music therapy program, where loves singing the Beluga song with her music therapist.

Donations to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals fund the music therapy program that offers Emme comfort throughout her medical journey.

Elle was born prematurely at 25 weeks gestation, with a brain bleed that caused hydrocephalus, a neurological disorder caused by an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the cavities of her brain. Elle and her twin sister, Emme, were both given a 10-15% chance of survival. Elle spent 106 days in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with her sister. Elle benefited from the power of play by working closely with Child Life specialists and she loved the special NICU teddy bears, the mobiles, and the play pads. Today, Elle loves dancing, playing, and being her sister Emme’s number one supporter.

Donations to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals supported Elle and her family by generously covering the treatment not covered by insurance.

Treated at Medical University South Carolina Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital in Charleston, SC.

At 48 hours old, Vinny was diagnosed with Hirschsprung's disease, a gastrointestinal disorder that affects the body’s ability to eliminate stool. Under the care of the team at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, Vinny underwent a 4.5-hour lifesaving surgery.

Vinny spent one month in the hospital recovering. Despite the hurdles associated with his condition, he defied the odds and blossomed into a healthy, vibrant kid. The compassionate care he received from MUSC staff played a pivotal role in Vinny's remarkable recovery and ongoing well-being. Vinny received follow-up care from special teams at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital and has not required a return visit since he was ten.

Now 12 years old and in the sixth grade, Vinny is a lover of sports, and can often be found on the tennis court, hanging out with his two sisters, or surfing. His true passion is playing soccer. Last year, he was selected and traveled to Madrid, Spain, to compete in the Real Madrid World Challenge tournament!

Thanks to donations to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, Vinny had access to specialized care and world-class surgeons at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital.