2023 CMN Hospitals Champion for Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Every year, 170 member Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) hospitals identify a “Champion” in each of their local communities to serve as the face for children treated at their local children’s hospital. These ambassadors spend their year advocating for the charitable needs of children’s hospitals across North America.

Meet JP Lugo, our 2023 CMN Hospitals Champion for Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. When JP was born, he could barely move, constantly slept and was not eating regularly. It wasn’t until nine months old that he was able to hold his head up on his own.

Following several tests at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer, JP was referred to specialists at The Howard Phillips Center for Children and Families, part of Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, who recommended occupational and physical therapies.

Just before his second birthday, JP underwent testing and was diagnosed with Potocki-Lupski syndrome (PTLS), a rare genetic condition that caused many of the complications JP experienced, including developmental delays, feeding and speech difficulties, and low muscle tone.

Throughout his childhood, JP continued to receive care from specialists that helped both him and his family navigate his medical needs. From regular checkups with his cardiologist and neurologist; to appointments with his gastroenterologist to help with nutritional necessities, and visits at the Feeding Difficulties Center, JP’s family was determined to do everything they could to help him continue to grow stronger.

Thanks to the early intervention JP received at The Howard Phillips Center, and the continued care from his team at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer, JP can walk, run and dance with his seven siblings and continues to surpass all expectations.

JP is an avid sports fan and an athlete himself. In fact, he is currently one of the top swimmers for the Special Olympics Central Florida team! Wherever he goes, JP’s infectious smile brings joy to everyone he meets.

Still today, the team at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer remains an important part of JP’s life and continues to be by his side to help him be the strongest version of himself.