Children’s Miracle Network of Northern New York Names 2024 Champion

Published on: February 20, 2024

Watertown, NY — Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals of Northern New York is pleased to announce 6-year-old Sophia O’Connor of Carthage as its 2024 Champion.

Each year, 170 Children’s Miracle Network hospitals across the country identify a champion in their community to serve as the face for children treated at their hospital. Children’s Miracle Network of Northern New York at Samaritan Medical Center (CMN) has chosen an annual local champion since 2019. The 2023 Champion was Sammy Shelton of Watertown.

“Sophia’s story is one of hope and determination” said Angie VanWormer, Director of Children’s Miracle Network at Samaritan. “Her family is excited that Sophia has been given the opportunity to be an ambassador for CMN and is eager to connect with others in the community to share their experiences.” 

When Sophia was just three years old, she suffered an adverse reaction to a prescribed medication that caused prolonged hypoglycemia. This happened while she was sleeping, and she had many seizures that resulted in irreparable damage and blindness. Sophia still has seizures and sees many specialists that monitor her closely. She is now in first grade and loves school and using her imagination. Sophia is overcoming obstacles every day.

“Even though it’s been extremely difficult as a parent to watch your child go through this every day, it’s about trying to have hope that no matter what she does, it will get better and things will become easier for her” says Sophia’s mom, Michelle O’Connor. 

Through the Direct Family Assistance Program, CMN continues to be there for Sophia and kids like her to help ease the financial burden of medical care. This program is available to children in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties who are facing a health crisis to help with out-of-pocket costs related to necessary medical care, including travel to specialists and expenses not covered by insurance.

For more information on Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals contact Samaritan Medical Center at 315-785-4053 or [email protected] 

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