Local CHRISTUS patients selected as National Children’s Miracle Network Champions

The CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Foundation is proud to announce that twins Erin and Ian Williams have been selected as 2026 National Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Champions representing CHRISTUS Health. Previously serving as local champions, they will now share their inspiring story on a national stage at CMN’s annual conference this spring.

“We are absolutely thrilled that Erin and Ian have been named CMN National Champions,” said Kellie Veillon, CMN program director, CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Foundation. “Their resilience, spirit and unwavering determination truly embody what it means to represent children who rely on this kind of care.”

CMN brings communities together to support 170 member hospitals across the U.S. and Canada, helping fund critical treatment, essential equipment and innovative programs for children close to home. Each year, CMN selects ambassadors from across the country to raise awareness about the urgent need for charitable support in pediatric health care. These inspiring children and their families represent diverse backgrounds and hospitals throughout the network, demonstrating the life-changing impact of donor generosity and the ongoing need to support CMN’s mission.

At 36 weeks pregnant, Ian and Erin’s mother rushed to CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital after sudden contractions. Doctors discovered a dangerous placental abruption and performed an emergency caesarean section within minutes, saving all three lives.

The twins, each weighing only three pounds, spent two weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) on oxygen and feeding tubes, supported by specialized equipment funded through CMN, including the Omni Isolette Care Station and phototherapy lights. Nurses provided constant updates, hands-on education and helped prepare the family for discharge. The twins continued follow-up care for months through the Developmental Clinic, eventually graduating in a heartfelt ceremony.

Early intervention set the foundation for the twins’ success. Now 10, Erin and Ian are happy, healthy and active. Erin is a sports enthusiast who loves softball, basketball and swimming. Ian is a creative performer and dreams of becoming an actor or director.

As National Champions, the twins will share their story through CMN campaigns and platforms throughout the year, helping lead the charge for CMN’s Health For All Kids Impact Pledge, a bold commitment to raise $1 billion in the next two years to ensure every child has the best possible chance at a healthy future.

"In today's health care landscape, children's hospitals have to do more with less at a time when kids' health care needs are becoming more complex and more urgent," said Aimee J. Daily, Ph.D., president & CEO, Children's Miracle Network. "The Impact Pledge demonstrates our expanded commitment to participate in the solution and invites communities to join our movement to ensure kids have the best possible chance for happy, healthy futures."

Learn more about how you can make a big change for all kids by visiting cmn.org/pledge.