Meet Champion, Trace

Born six weeks early, Trace’s arrival brought unexpected news - he was diagnosed with Down syndrome. He spent six weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Christus Southeast Texas St. Elizabeth due to feeding difficulties and oxygen needs. Those first weeks were filled with uncertainty, but his care team surrounded the family with compassion and hope. Their neonatologist focused not on limitations, but on possibilities, encouraging Trace’s parents to believe he could do anything his older brothers could do. NICU nurses provided skilled, attentive care, guiding the family through every high and low and helping them adjust to their new normal with confidence. Now 12, Trace is a kind, loving, and determined young boy. What began with uncertainty, transformed into a journey of pride, strength, and joy as Trace thrives today.