Meet Champion, Eathan

Eathan’s story began before birth, when doctors discovered a brain cyst causing hydrocephalus. When he was born, he was immediately transferred to Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters (CHKD), where surgeons placed a shunt to drain fluid from his brain. Eathan went home after a month in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), but continued to face other challenges, including seizures, hormone deficiency, and vision problems, requiring ongoing therapy and care from CHKD specialists. At almost eight, Eathan faced another battle when his shunt malfunctioned, requiring two surgeries. During recovery, CHKD staff dubbed him “Eathan the Brave.” On his eighth birthday, Spider-Man and Captain America arrived to celebrate, boosting his spirits. With support from CHKD’s therapy dog, SaraLee, Eathan found the strength to walk again, leaving behind his wheelchair and walker. Now 15, Eathan continues to be followed by a team of specialists. He enjoys reading, singing, cooking, and the Marvel Universe.