Mile 76

Myles is a bright and joyful 3-year-old with a big smile and an even bigger heart. He’s also a proud big brother to his 1-year-old sister. Myles entered the world a little early, arriving at 34 weeks and weighing just 4 pounds, 9 ounces. Right after birth, he was flown to Manning Family Children’s due to concerns about bleeding on his brain, ventriculomegaly, and a PDA (patent ductus arteriosus) in his heart. Despite the scary start, Myles defied the odds—his brain bleeding stabilized, his PDA closed on its own, and after just five days in the NICU, he was strong enough to go home.

As he continued to grow, Myles was later diagnosed with periventricular leukomalacia, a brain injury that led to cerebral palsy and caused a right-sided motor deficit. But that hasn’t slowed him down. He began receiving therapy through Early Steps in late 2021 and added additional therapy through Manning Family Children’s Northshore therapy center in 2022. Myles now participates in six therapy sessions a week, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Though he’s not walking just yet, he’s making steady progress, and his family remains hopeful that milestone is just around the corner.

Despite the challenges he faces, Myles lives life to the fullest. He’s a huge fan of Christmas—especially Santa—and lights up at anything holiday-related. He also loves Mardi Gras, football games (especially cheering on the Saints and LSU Tigers), and swimming, one of his absolute favorite activities. His infectious smile brings joy to everyone he meets, and his kind, social nature makes him a friend to all. Myles is a shining example of resilience, and his journey is filled with love, laughter, and unstoppable spirit.