Published: Nov. 8, 2010
LANSING, MICHIGAN - Landon Whitaker, 12, of Charlotte, along with other children's hospital patients from every U.S. state and every province in Canada, will travel to Orlando, Fla., Nov. 10-14 to participate in the Children's Miracle Network's annual Celebration event.
The Celebration brings together hospitals, sponsors, children's hospital patients and celebrities to celebrate achievements, share best practices and honor the children who benefit from Children's Miracle Network's fundraising efforts. Landon is the Children's Miracle Network's Champion Child for Michigan.
On Friday, Nov. 12, Landon will be honored at a Medal Ceremony, along with the other Champion children. Landon has been participating in the 2010 Children's Miracle Network Champions for the state of Michigan since January. He has participated in various local fundraisers and events to raise awareness for Sparrow, where Landon was treated after he was accidentally shot in the face. Landon represents the millions of children who have been treated at Children's Miracle Network hospitals in Michigan.
After he was shot, Landon's family was told that he may never walk again and could possibly lose his sight and hearing. Through the care and attention of specialists from the Sparrow Children's Center, he survived and had made an astounding recovery.
The Champions program designates a Champion child in every state who has bravely battled and triumphed despite a serious injury or illness. Champions serve as ambassadors for the 17 million children treated at Children's Miracle Network hospitals each year. The 2010 Champions have dealt with a variety of afflictions that include illnesses such as brittle bone disease, brain tumors and cerebral palsy, and surviving traumatic accidents.
Champions, presented by Walmart and Sam's Club, is designed to raise awareness of the vital work taking place in children's hospitals. In June, the Champions and their families traveled to Washington, D.C., where they met with President Obama at the White House.