Meet Our Miracle Kids!

When Baby Ray was born just over halfway through his mother's pregnancy, doctors warned his family that survival was unlikely. After spending months in the NICU at St. Louis Children's Hospital, he underwent multiple surgeries and overcame countless complications, including brain bleeds that continue to affect his speech and motor skills.

Now 8 years old, Baby Ray has defied every expectation. Despite diagnoses including cerebral palsy, autism, chronic lung disease, sensory processing disorder, and ADHD, he is walking, talking, and thriving. He enjoys Disney movies, singing, dancing, and continues to make progress through ongoing therapies at St. Louis Children's.

Born at just 27 weeks, Ella was diagnosed with fetal growth restriction, a condition that prevented her from growing at a normal rate before birth. At just two weeks old, she suffered a brain bleed and was later diagnosed with periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), a condition caused by the brain bleed that affects the nerve cells responsible for motor movement.

Ella spent the first four months of her life in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). After finally coming home, she began receiving physical, speech, and occupational therapies to help her grow stronger and continue thriving. She was later referred to a specialist at St. Louis Children's Hospital who treats children with cerebral palsy.

At just two years old, Ella underwent a selective dorsal rhizotomy, a minimally invasive spinal surgery that can help children with cerebral palsy walk more independently. During her recovery, she found joy in the hospital's playroom and visits from therapy dogs, helping her continue to be a kid while healing.

Emmett has been a part of the RockyTHON family since 2016, marking a decade of involvement within RockyTHON. His connection to RockyTHON began through his uncle, who attended Western Illinois University and introduced his family to the event and its mission.

Throughout his journey, Emmett has received specialized treatment for X-SCID at St. Louis Children's Hospital. The care he has received has made him one of the many Miracle Kids whose stories inspire the RockyTHON community each year.

At just 12 years old, Jace has been part of the RockyTHON family for his entire life. Before he was even old enough to understand what RockyTHON meant, his story was already connected to the mission. Jace was born with neuroblastoma, a form of cancer that develops from immature nerve cells called neuroblasts. From the beginning, Jace and his family have experienced the challenges that come with a childhood cancer diagnosis, but they have also experienced the hope and support that comes from a community dedicated to helping kids like him.

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in the St. Louis area have been a major part of Jace’s journey, providing the care and resources he needed throughout his fight. His family’s connection to CMN Hospitals goes even further, as his sister, Maria, has also received treatment at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

Jace’s journey is a story of strength, resilience, and hope. Because of the incredible care made possible through Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, Jace reached an amazing milestone in 2026; being declared 10 years cancer-free.

Jillian has been treated at Children's Miracle Network Hospitals for HNPP, CP, gastroparesis, and a laryngeal cleft. Throughout her medical journey, she has undergone an incredible 20 surgeries. Her journey has required immense strength, resilience, and determination, and she continues to face each challenge with courage.

The care Jillian has received through Children's Miracle Network Hospitals has been an important part of her journey, providing the specialized treatment she has needed along the way. While her medical journey has included many obstacles, it has also been filled with perseverance and hope.

This year marks Jillian's fifth year being involved with RockyTHON. By sharing her story and being part of the event, Jillian reminds everyone why RockyTHON's mission is so important.