Meet the 2025 Children’s Miracle Network Champion 

Children’s Miracle Network at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital is excited to introduce our 2025 Miracle Champion Gannon. 

Born 12 weeks early and weighing just 13 oz – the size of an unopened can of soda – Gannon faced an uphill battle from the start. Shortly after birth, he was transported in a CMN-funded Life Lion pediatric ambulance to the Children’s Hospital in Hershey, where he would spend more than 200 days in the hospital. 

Gannon was diagnosed with lung and intestinal issues, needed a ventilator and G-tube feedings, and struggled with weakened bones. However, his incredible spirit never wavered, earning him the nickname “Warrior Gannon.” After breaking his leg, he even participated in a CMN-funded Healthy Kids Running Series in his wheelchair, showing that nothing could hold him back. 

CMN has been there every step of the way for Gannon, providing essential support when he needed it most. After a fracture and cast, CMN supplied a specialized car seat to ensure his safe travel home. CMN also provided meal vouchers for his family, helping ease the burden during their long hospital stay, and offered art therapy to give Gannon a creative outlet and boost his emotional well-being. 

Gannon has a special gift for brightening others’ days, especially when comforting other kids in the doctor’s office who might be feeling scared. With his love for drawing and impressive collection of bow ties, he brings joy wherever he goes. In an inspiring act, he wrote and illustrated his own book about his medical journey, with proceeds benefitting CMN to help other children. 

“We’re thrilled to celebrate Miracle Champion Gannon and honor his remarkable strength. His story highlights not only his resilience but also the unwavering support of his family and care teams at the Children’s Hospital,” said Katie Anderson, Director of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. “It truly takes a community to bring hope and health to children. Thank you to everyone who helps us give kids the gift of growing up.” 

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals’ Champions represent 170 member hospitals across the U.S. and Canada, sharing unique stories of strength and encouraging their communities to raise essential funds for children’s healthcare.