Meet Champion, Cole

Cole is known for his confidence, thoughtfulness, and humor, qualities that shine through despite the challenges he’s faced most of his young life. Diagnosed with spina bifida in utero, a congenital anomaly that impacts the spine and spinal cord, Cole’s condition affects the use of his legs and bladder. His mom, Joann, first learned of his diagnosis during pregnancy. “The scariest part was the unknown,” she recalls. With guidance and support, Joann underwent surgery while pregnant to repair Cole’s spine. Six weeks later, Cole was born at just 32 weeks and spent two months in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Today, Cole loves telling jokes, making Yoda impressions, and laughing, even in the hospital. Humor has carried him through countless procedures, along with music, therapy dogs, and caring volunteers. With his custom wheelchair, Cole skis, plays basketball, enjoys Café Rio quesadillas, and lives life to the fullest.