A school-wide celebration was held on Friday, April 26, at Bay Minette Elementary School in honor of Maci Brown, a 9-year-old recently named a Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) champion for USA Health Children's & Women's Hospital.

During the event, Maci was surrounded by her classmates, teachers and staff, along with mascots and cheerleaders from the University of South Alabama. A special ceremony took place where she was crowned, symbolizing her role as an ambassador for CMN and the local children’s hospital.

The celebration included a mini dance party and relay races for the students. Prior to the celebration, approximately 800 students at the Baldwin County school have been raising funds for Children’s Miracle Network to support sick and injured children.

Maci's journey with USA Health began before her birth, as she was diagnosed with Stage 3b kidney disease and other health conditions. Despite initial challenges, including a 58-day stay in the neonatal intensive care unit, Maci has persevered with the support of her family and caregivers. Through intense physical therapy, she has learned to walk and now enjoys activities like skipping, running and dancing.

Inspired by the healthcare teams aiding her daughter, Maci's mother, Christy English, pursued a career change to become a pediatric nurse.

Now, as a childhood champion, Maci's smiling face adorns donation cards and banners at local stores such as Walmart, Publix, Costco and ACE Hardware, providing inspiration to others in the community.