Braden’s birth came with grim expectations—his condition meant he wasn’t expected to survive past infancy. His mother, Cheri, prayed, “Dear God, just let me have him for a little while.” At one month old, doctors sent Braden home to say goodbye, believing he wouldn’t make it.

But against all odds, Braden survived. He endured over 30 surgeries, including one with just a 10% survival rate. His hospice nurse, Michele Eddings Linn, was there the night he almost passed, praying, “Lord, either take him home or make him better.” Miraculously, he pulled through, becoming her first patient to leave hospice care.

Seventeen years later, Braden graduated high school, fulfilling dreams once thought impossible. He now serves as a volunteer firefighter, proving resilience knows no limits. His journey inspires others: “Don’t ever give up,” says Cheri. “The view at the top is amazing!”

Braden’s story is one of faith, strength, and triumph.