Meet Champion, Cayden & Mia

Cayden’s medical journey began at a 15-week ultrasound when his parents learned he had spina bifida. In the third trimester, they traveled to Driscoll Children’s Hospital for imaging, surgical planning, and a spina bifida conference that connected them with other families and specialists. At 38 weeks, Cayden was born and quickly transported to Driscoll’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Before he was a day old, he underwent spinal closure surgery. Soon after, he was diagnosed with hydrocephalus and received a shunt. Additional surgeries included a cranial vault reconstruction to close an opening in his forehead. Today, Cayden uses a wheelchair and can walk with a gait trainer and braces, aiming one day to use canes. At just eight years old, he has completed multiple races including 5Ks, 10Ks, a half marathon, and a triathlon. Full of determination and joy, Cayden is thriving, chasing his goals with resilience and a smile. Mia was born unexpectedly at 35 weeks during a trip to a children’s hospital away from home for planned spina bifida care. That emergency C-section would turn into nearly five months away from home. After many challenges, Mia went home and enjoyed life with her sisters. Then at 22 months old, she was rushed to Driscoll Children’s Hospital for respiratory distress. Diagnosed with influenza A, a urinary tract infection, and a blood infection, her condition quickly worsened. The next day, Christmas Eve, her heart stopped, and for 20 minutes the pediatric intensive care team fought to save her. Mia survived, thanks to their quick actions and unwavering care. Her care team became like family, ensuring she was safe and comfortable. Today, three-year-old Mia’s journey is a story of resilience, hope, and the extraordinary care that gave her a second chance at life.