Piper Hegland Recognized as 2026 North Dakota Children’s Miracle Network Champion

Piper Hegland

8-year-old Piper Hegland has been named the 2026 North Dakota Children’s Miracle Network Champion for Sanford Children’s Hospital.

Piper, an Oberon, N.D. native, is the daughter of Jake and Amanda Hegland. Since birth, Piper has received specialized care at Sanford Children’s Hospital. At 37 weeks, a routine ultrasound revealed that Piper had myelomeningocele, the most severe form of spina bifida.  She was born with related complications, including bilateral club feet, where both feet are pointed in and down, hydrocephalus, which is a buildup of fluid in the brain and Chiari II malformation, a structural defect in which the lower part of the brain extends into the spinal canal.

“It’s an honor to walk alongside Piper and her family as they share their story this year.  Piper’s journey is a powerful reminder that philanthropy is not just about giving – it’s about ensuring children and families across our region have access to the specialized care, hope and support they need at Sanford Children’s Hospital,” said Hillery Mork, Sanford Health Foundation lead development officer.

Each year, Sanford Children’s Hospital in Fargo, a member hospital of Children’s Miracle Network, selects a child with a remarkable medical journey to serve as an ambassador, helping share the importance of supporting local children’s hospitals.

To learn more about Piper’s story, visit https://www.sanfordhealthfoundation.org/piper-the-2026-cmn-champion-fargo/.