Meet Champion, Claire

Claire was born prematurely at just 26 weeks’ gestation, weighing 2lbs., 4oz, and immediately began a 74-day fight for her life in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Monument Health Children’s Hospital. Surrounded by wires and machines made possible by Children’s Miracle Network donors, Claire received life-saving treatments and compassionate care from a team that quickly became family. Her parents, overwhelmed and uncertain, found strength through the honesty and expertise of her doctors and nurses, who walked them through every medication, transfusion, and milestone. Thanks to that care, Claire not only survived but thrived. Today, Claire is a vibrant 17-year-old who loves Elvis, plays guitar, enjoys hiking and fly fishing, and dreams of being a writer. Her story has inspired others to give back, including a generous gift that led to Monument Health naming their NICU “Claire’s Place,” ensuring hope and healing for countless families.