Two days after Jackson was born, an on-call pediatrician noticed his heart didn't sound normal. Follow-ups with cardiologists confirmed he had ventricular septal defect (VSD), and had open-heart surgery at 7 weeks old.

Jackson's VSD was large, resulting in a six-hour surgery. As he recovered at the hospital for six days, his caregivers were impressed at how happy he seemed to be there, especially at such a young age.

Jackson is outgoing, fun to be around and always wants to include others. He makes friends wherever he goes, whether on the sports field or playground. His family is reminded every day of how strong Jackson is because of his fun-loving, can-do attitude.

He loves anything sports-related - especially soccer, baseball and football. He enjoys music and likes to put on dance shows with his little brother. He spends most of his free time playing outside and putting together Legos with his dad.

Children's Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals funds paid for services Jackson used that are not reimbursed by insurance, including child life specialists. The funds also support research initiatives.

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