(Story by Lisa Kaylor, Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center)
When Coale Peace learned he had been chosen to be a 2025 National Champion by the Children’s Miracle Network, he asked his mom, “Does that mean me and 12 other kids are going to take over the world?”
That spunky attitude belies the painful condition he lives with every day: osteogenesis imperfecta, or OI. It is also known as “brittle bone disease.” His bones break with very little cause or provocation.
His spirit, however, is definitely not broken.
Coale is one of the spunkiest 6-year-olds you’ll ever meet. He will enter a room, hop out of his wheelchair and ask a thousand questions. He doesn’t mind telling you about his OI, either.
Coale’s mother, Rebecca Peace, said after they giggled for a minute following his question, she realized that Coale, despite his limitations, can do anything he puts his mind to.
He will join 12 children from across the United States to share their success stories. He is one example of the great work being done at children’s hospitals like Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia, a Children’s Miracle Network hospital. His work as a National Ambassador will help encourage communities across North America to support kids like himself.
“To know Coale is to love him! He is a true joy to be around and always keep you laughing,” said Kelsey McCullough, senior CMN Philanthropy Coordinator at Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia. “We are so excited for this incredible opportunity for him and his family.”
Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals bring people together to raise funds for 170 member hospitals across the US and Canada. These funds provide support for treatments, equipment and programming that help ensure the best possible care for kids across the country.
“I think this is just the beginning of an amazing adventure of spreading awareness, making new friends and representing our local children’s hospital,” Rebecca Peace said. “What an honor to be chosen out of so many amazing children with equally amazing stories.”
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