Emma spent the first seven months of her life at Phoenix Children's Hospital. At only five days old, Emma’s first surgery to repair her heart was a success. But she had persistent problems that required four open-heart surgeries in less than five months. “Emma never followed the logical rules of how things were supposed to go, and that changed things so dramatically,” says her mom Amy. “She has definitely kept everyone on their toes.”

Today, Emma is still keeping people on their toes – namely her parents – who are grateful to be chasing the toddler around, whether Emma is swinging or riding her tricycle. She slows down only long enough to watch Spongebob Squarepants or Blue’s Clues. Emma loves being the center of attention, especially if that means showing off her singing, dancing and air guitar skills.

In 2006, Emma underwent the second stage of the required three-stage surgery. It was a success, and 2007 was the first year Emma was surgery-free since she was born. Emma does have some lingering issues. She’s still dependent on tube feedings (a result of needing a trach tube for so long) but she’s making strides with her eating and drinking. Otherwise, Emma is meeting her milestones and keeping up with her preschool classmates. “I continue to be amazed by her every single day. She is the strongest, most courageous person I know and I am so proud to be her mother,” says Amy.

After spending so much time at Phoenix Children’s, there are few staff members who haven’t seen Emma walking the halls with a huge smile on her face and blowing kisses to everyone. It’s the same “live out loud” personality that made her such a hit during her stay in the Hospital’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. “Even being here as long as she was, Emma always had such a sweet smile. You couldn’t help but fall in love with her,” says Wendy Pauker, a Phoenix Children's child life specialist.

That personality shines through everywhere Emma goes. She has an amazing ability to light up any room she enters. “She draws people in to her and makes them feel special. She embraces those around her with pure, genuine, heart-felt love,” adds Amy.

Although Emma still has one more surgery to go at Phoenix Children’s, there’s no doubt this little fighter will come through with flying colors. And hopefully she’ll sign a few autographs for her adoring fans while she’s there.