Children’s Miracle Network families enjoy Air Show

Before thousands of spectators gathered over the Labor Day weekend for the Branson Wings of Pride Air Show, a very special group of guests were invited on Friday, September 4, for a first look at the excitement, as presenting sponsor CoxHealth welcomed Children’s Miracle Network families for an exclusive rehearsal day experience. 

These special families enjoyed premium viewing from the Gold Club hospitality area as many of the nation’s top military and civilian performers rehearsed for the weekend. The excitement was contagious as they watched the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the A-10 “Warthog,” the U.S.A.F. C-17 demonstration team, and world-class aerobatics by civilian performers. 

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Photos by Cynthia J. Thomas

The rehearsal day was not open to the general public, allowing Children’s Miracle Network families to experience many of the same breathtaking performances that were presented later in the weekend in a more relaxed environment for their special family members. 

One of the young spectators was 5-year-old Samuel, whose birth as a micro-preemie weighing less than 2 pounds introduced his family to the services of the Children’s Miracle Network. Anyone watching Samuel excitedly dancing and singing along with the Thunderbirds’ introductory music while pointing to the sky, would have never guessed his early challenges; but his parents shared that the ongoing support as they were moved beyond his NICU days and through the physical challenges presented by his early birth has been so valuable, giving them a lasting network to count on. 

“Once a Network family, always a network family,” agreed the family members gathered with Elliana, 12. The red-haired Willard preteen, recognizable by many from her being featured as a Network poster child, shared, “I’m so excited to see the airplanes!” before dashing to the front of the tent for a better look. 

The Wings of Pride partnership reflects CoxHealth’s ongoing commitment to Children’s Miracle Network and to creating meaningful experiences that celebrate local area families. Network leadership also expressed thanks to Chick-fil-A of Branson, which partnered with CoxHealth in providing box lunches to the families in attendance. 

“Our families are so grateful,” said Kassie Fox, director of special projects for Children’s Miracle Network in southwest Missouri. “Even some of our kids who have aged out at 18 still love to return!” Seeing the camaraderie among those families, it was easy to see why! 

Learn more about CMN in southwest Missouri and meet the local team, by visiting https://www.coxhealthcmn.com/.