UF Health Announces Fletcher as 2026 Children’s Miracle Network Champion
UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital has introduced 14-year-old Fletcher Huddleston as its 2026 Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Champion, honoring his remarkable journey of resilience and courage. CMN Champions are selected annually from among 170 member hospitals to serve as voices for children treated at their local children’s hospital and help raise awareness about the ongoing need for community support.
Fletcher’s story began in 2017 when he was hospitalized after months of unexplained illness. Following emergency testing and transfer to UF Health Shands, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 Burkitt’s Lymphoma, an aggressive form of cancer that affected more than 90 % of his bone marrow. His treatment included intense chemotherapy, dialysis, and weeks of care in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.
Throughout his treatment, Fletcher showed determination that inspired his family and care team. Even as he endured side effects such as hair loss, he maintained a positive outlook, telling his parents, “It’s just hair, and it’ll grow back.” After five months of treatment and once his feeding line was removed, Fletcher completed chemotherapy and began recovery.
Today, Fletcher is thriving in middle school and embracing everyday activities with family and friends—moments that feel particularly meaningful after his health challenges. His experience highlights both the strength of cancer survivors and the importance of community support in pediatric care.
As CMN Champion, Fletcher will help share how philanthropic contributions to UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital support vital services, research, and programs that make a tangible difference for young patients and their families. His story serves as a powerful reminder of how resilience, combined with expert care and community generosity, creates hope for children facing serious illnesses.
Read more: Resilience and Bravery: Introducing our 2026 CMN Champion, Fletcher!