Meet Champion, Natalie

When Natalie was 4, she began struggling to breathe. Initially diagnosed with RSV and low oxygen at a community hospital, her condition quickly worsened. Her left lung collapsed, and she developed pneumonia. She was rushed to Cottage Children’s Medical Center in a pediatric transport ambulance funded in part by Children’s Miracle Network. Scared to ride alone due to COVID restrictions, Natalie found comfort in a plush tiger given to her by the transport team. Natalie received high-flow oxygen, medication, and respiratory therapy in the pediatric intensive care unit. Throughout the night, therapists used vest treatments and breathing exercises, and by morning, she was improving. A cheerful doctor lifted her spirits with pancakes and pizza, while nurses encouraged bubble-blowing and walks to strengthen her lungs. After four days, Natalie went home breathing on her own, singing “Let It Go.” Now thriving, 8-year-old Natalie loves golf, softball, singing, and all things pink.