Children’s Miracle Network 2025 Champion

In September of 2018, Camila's mom went into labor three months early at 26 weeks and was flown to The University of New Mexico Children’s Hospital from Las Cruces.

Born weighing only one pound with a heart murmur, Camila and Claudia stayed at the hospital for three months until she graduated from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Being three hours away from home with an infant fighting for her life can be daunting. However, Claudia proclaims regularly that the staff and services at UNM “just made it feel like home.” Between toys, games, laundry services and the Ronald McDonald Room- they always felt supported during their extended stay and return visits.

Camila and her family have made many lifetime friends here at UNM and are avid champions of the Children’s Miracle Network Program (CMN). Being able to help raise money in the community for families just like theirs, has been a rewarding experience for the entire family.

Claudia’s first child, Jacob is a mentor for Camila as a former Champion Child for UNM Children's Hospital. Jacob, 19, is a Cerebral Palsy patient. Despite any difficulties he faces, Jacob is a fierce champion of pediatric health and loves visiting the Las Cruces partners down in Las Cruces. For years Jacob has been the champion kiddo for our southern Walmart stores- a torch he will be passing on to Camila this year!

A heartfelt thank you to Claudia, Camila and Jacob for sharing their patient stories to help every child here at UNM Children's Hospital.