It is with great pleasure that we announce Mason Mitchell, a Webster toddler born with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia, as the 2011 New York State Champion and Ambassador for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.

Mason Mitchell was born with a hole in his diaphragm, causing his vital organs to float upwards and push against his lungs. Mason's condition was life-threatening, but Golisano Children's Hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Pediatric Surgical Division were poised and ready to treat little Mason when he came into the world. Mason has since undergone several major surgeries, but one would never know it by seeing the energetic little boy, who always wears huge smile on his face.

Walmart hosted a celebration for Mason and his family Thursday, with a cake, refreshments and lots of balloons. They also surprised the family with a $500 gift card to Walmart, which the Mitchells can use in preparation for the trip they'll be going on with other State Champions in October. During their trip, they'll visit Washington D.C., and Orlando, Fla. Congratulations to Mason and his family!  

For photos from the event, visit our Facebook album. To see a video the Mitchells did with us around the holidays, click here. Visit Mason's blog here. 

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