Local CHRISTUS patient selected as National Children’s Miracle Network Champion

The CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Foundation is proud to announce that Luna Cruz has been selected as a 2026 National Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Champion representing CHRISTUS Health. Luna previously served as the local champion and will now share her story on a national stage at CMN’s annual conference in the Spring.

“We are beyond excited to have Luna selected as a CMN National Champion,” said Christina Mosier, CMN program director, CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Foundation. “Her strength and grace in overcoming obstacles make her the perfect choice to represent kids like her who need care.”

CMN brings communities together to support 170 member hospitals across the U.S. and Canada, helping fund critical treatment, essential equipment and innovative programs for children close to home. Each year, CMN selects ambassadors from across the country to raise awareness about the urgent need for charitable support in pediatric health care. These inspiring children and their families represent diverse backgrounds and hospitals throughout the network, demonstrating the life-changing impact of donor generosity and the ongoing need to support CMN’s mission.

Luna’s journey began when, at age five, her parents noticed concerning symptoms like constant exhaustion, tired legs, tingling hands, excessive thirst, frequent bathroom breaks and weight loss. Initially, doctors believed she was battling common illnesses.

After moving to East Texas in Mar. 2023, Luna’s condition worsened dramatically. She slept up to 22 hours a day, and one morning her parents could barely wake her. They rushed her to CHRISTUS Emergency Care Center – Lindale, where she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition. Luna was transferred to CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Tyler, where her care team stabilized her.

Three years later, Luna has adapted to life with Type 1 diabetes. She proudly wears an insulin pump decorated with stickers and manages her condition with confidence, supported by her CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic Pediatric Endocrinology team.

As a National Champion, Luna will share her story through CMN campaigns and platforms throughout the year, helping lead the charge for CMN’s Health For All Kids Impact Pledge, a bold commitment to raise $1 billion in the next two years to ensure every child has the best possible chance at a healthy future.

"In today's health care landscape, children's hospitals have to do more with less at a time when kids' health care needs are becoming more complex and more urgent," said Aimee J. Daily, Ph.D., president & CEO, Children's Miracle Network. "The Impact Pledge demonstrates our expanded commitment to participate in the solution and invites communities to join our movement to ensure kids have the best possible chance for happy, healthy futures."

Learn more about how you can make a big change for all kids by visiting cmn.org/pledge.