Children's Miracle Awards article!

Orlando Attractions:

Children’s Miracle Network star-studded celebration at Disney World honored kid ‘champions’ from around the country

A host of celebrities joined the Children’s Miracle Network in a five day celebration event last week at Walt Disney World. Hospital staff, pediatric caregivers, sponsors and children gathered to celebrate accomplishments and honor “Champions” -- kids ages 3 to 17 who’ve been selected to represent more than 17 million children treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals around the country.

Children’s Miracle Hospitals co-founder John Schneider, along with Merideth Vieira, David Archuleta, Mark Wills, Bill Engvall, Steve Young and Miss America helped honor these special children at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and other locations around Walt Disney World.

Each U.S. state wass represented by at least one of the 54 Champions, who themselves have undergone treatment for various medical challenges. The children were given the chance to not only enjoy the Disney parks, but to be recognized with a special “Celebrate a Dream Come True” parade. Three Champions were selected to sit alongside Miss America Teresa Scanlan as Grand Marshals.

More highlights from the Children’s Miracle Network Celebration:

Meet the Champions Party and Medal Ceremony -- Each of the Champions were recognized for meeting medical challenges with courage. Country singer Mark Wills and comedian Bill Engvall entertained the audience during this event.

Children’s Miracle Awards -- Meredith Vieira was the emcee for a black-tie dinner that recognized hospitals, caregivers and sponsors. Singer David Archuleta delivered two stirring performances, Dream Sky High and Lean on Me (video below). Children’s Hospital patient Eileen Garrido sang and Miss America Teresa Scanlan delivered a piano number. Olympic champion Mary Lou Retton was one of those recognized, receiving the Merlin Olsen Legacy of Miracles Award for her 20 years of active involvement with Children’s Miracle Hospitals. The award was presented to her by Children’s Miracle Network co-founder John Schneider.