Meet Victor! Virginia's Children's Miracle Network Hospital Champion

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ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - Victor has been a fighter ever since he was born. This week, the boy who receives treatment at Carilion Children's Hospital in Roanoke is in Orlando this week celebrating #ChildrensHospitalsWeek.

With five other children at home, Victor's mom knew what to expect from a newborn. But Victor surprised her with his tiny weight, only 4 pounds 6 ounces at 40 weeks gestation, and his difficulty breathing.

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He was diagnosed with Pierre Robin syndrome and had a cleft palate, cranial issues and intestinal malrotation.

Victor spent his first three months of life in a neonatal intensive care unit supported by Children's Miracle Network Hospitals donations. "It was a whole new world," Victor's mom says, "of trusting strangers who were suddenly such an important part of our lives."

When Victor came home with a tracheostomy, a gastrostomy tube, and an array of medical equipment, Victor's mother put aside many of her fears about caring for Victor and surprised herself with newfound courage and abilities.

As Victor has grown, he has continued to benefit from CMNH donations that support outpatient therapy clinics where he is treated. CMNH donations have also made it possible for Victor and his family to attend a unique camp for children with special needs and their families. At camp, Victor and his family connect with other families in similar situations, finding friends and a new level of support and encouragement. According to Victor and his siblings, it's the best summer camp out there and tops their list of summer fun.