Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals®, a charity that raises funds for 170 children’s hospitals across North America, will gather for its 2011 Celebration events at Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., Oct. 19-23.

This 5-day engagement brings together hospitals, corporate sponsors, media partners, children’s hospital patients and celebrities to celebrate achievements, share best practices and honor “Champions” — selected children representing all who benefit from the charity’s fundraising efforts.

The Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Champions program, presented by Ace Hardware, identifies one young ambassador from every U.S. state and Canadian province. These remarkable children, ranging from 3 to 17 years old, have all been treated at a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital for a serious medical affliction and work throughout the year to further awareness for hospitals across North America.

During the week, Champions and their families will enjoy breakfast with Disney characters, visit Disney World, speak with sponsors and media partners, and be honored at an emotionally charged medal ceremony. The week’s highlights include:

Meet the Champions Party and Medal Ceremony
Thursday, Oct. 20, 7:30 pm 
Each Champion will be individually recognized for their courage in overcoming staggering medical obstacles. Along with the recognition received from their loved-ones, hospital representatives and sponsors, the night’s festivities will include comedian Bill Engvall and music by country singer Mark Wills.

Children’s Miracle Awards presented by Delta Air Lines
Saturday, Oct. 22, 6:30 pm
The Children’s Miracle Awards, presented by Delta Air Lines, is a formal event that honors outstanding pediatric caregivers at the 170 Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Meredith Vieira will serve as the Awards’ emcee, with a vocal performance by David Archuleta, a song by children’s hospital patient Eileen Garrido and a piano recital by Miss America 2011 Teresa Scanlan.

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic
Thursday, Oct. 20- Sunday, Oct. 23
The Children's Miracle Network Hospitals Classic is the last stop of the 2011 PGA Tour. The event takes place at Walt Disney World's Magnolia and Palm golf courses. This is the fifth year Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals will be the title-sponsor of the event, and the 41st year Disney is hosting the Classic. Participating in the two-day pro-am are NFL greats Steve Young and Brian Wilson, Chicago Cubs’ Carlos Pena, and several members of the Tampa Bay Rays.