2008 Virginia Champion Nick Manning
Nick Manning, 16, loved riding motocross in Chesapeake, Va., but he was by no means a reckless daredevil. He always wore full safety gear for every ride. But during a ride on August 26, 2006, Nick suffered a terrifying accident that resulted in a traumatic brain injury.
Doctors at Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters treated Nick aggressively. For the next 11 days, Nick’s family and loved ones watched over him and prayed for his survival. On day 12, he opened his eyes. After 23 days, he was finally alert and in fair condition. After that, he made such rapid progress that he was strong enough to go home on October 5 after only 18 days in rehab.
Nick’s positive attitude and love for his family and life make him a role model for other children. “Nick’s been so strong,” his mother said. “Since his recovery started, his worst day was when we had to tell him he could no longer ride motorcycles. He was very down about that. I told him it was okay to be upset, and he said, ‘You know what, mom? It’s a miracle I’m even alive.’”
Selected as Virginia's representative in Children's Miracle Network Champions
program, Nick traveled with his family to Walt Disney World for the taping
of the 2008 Children's Miracle Network Telethon Celebration.
Nick went to Washington, D.C., as an ambassador for 17 million hospitalized
children across the country, where he visited the White House and met with U.S.
senators and representatives on Capitol Hill.
Nick was chosen as Virginia's Children's Miracle Champion because of his
triumph over a motor cross accident that left him with a severe,
life-threatening brain injury. After extended intensive care at Children's
Hospital of The King's Daughters, Nick spent 18 days in acute rehab before
going home. Nick is now doing great and living life to the fullest.
Click on his video clip to learn more about Nick.