Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler, as the National Goodwill Ambassador for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, was honored to meet the President of the United States Barack Obama and tour the White House while she accompanied the courageous young children representing CMNH. These children, who are all Champions, hail from each state of the nation and show their true spirit as they have overcome their challenges in battling life threatening illnesses. Wednesday, along with Miss America, they had the once in a lifetime opportunity to meet President Obama.

The events in Washington D.C. began on Monday with a visit to the Capitol and a tour of the city. Laura joined the Champions for a private reception at the National Air and Space Museum as special guests and enjoyed a private tour of the museum, which was closed to the public.

The Champions and Laura left Washington D.C. with incredible memories and an experience of a lifetime.  As they boarded their plane Wednesday, the memories and new friendships continued as they flew to Orlando, Florida on a private plane donated by Delta Airlines. Once they arrived in the sunshine state, they enjoyed an evening reception to kick off a series of wonderful events to mark the annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospital’s Celebration in Florida.

Thursday, they began their much anticipated visit to Disney’s world famous Magic Kingdom. Laura and the Champions also participated in a satellite media tour and finished up the afternoon with the thrill of being in the Magic Kingdom parade with Miss America as the Grand Marshall.

The trip to Disney was topped off with a special dinner with the loveable Disney characters. The Champions and Laura enjoyed the Disney characters as they mingled, danced, and created some magic.

Following dinner, the much anticipated CMNH Champions Medal Ceremony hosted by Nick Cannon commenced. Miss America and country singer Mark Willis saluted the Champions as they received their medals commemorating their incredible spirit and courage.

Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler and The Miss America Organization are proud to congratulate Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals on an incredible celebration that continues to inspire all of us.

Source: MAO