Each year, Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals across the U.S. and Canada identify a “champion” in their community to represent kids treated at the local children's hospital. This year, Colusa resident Isaac Franco, 9, has been named the CMN champion for UC Davis Children’s Hospital.

As the face of CMN at UC Davis for 2024, Isaac and his family will support campaigns that benefit UC Davis Children’s Hospital, the only CMN Hospital in the area.

Isaac was a toddler when he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a common childhood cancer that starts in the bone marrow. He was hospitalized at UC Davis Children’s Hospital and then began chemotherapy treatment at UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center.

“It was hard when we got the news Isaac had cancer. He was so little,” said Daisy Franco, Isaac’s mom. “But he fought every step of the way. He was really strong.”

Isaac’s treatment lasted three years. Throughout that time, Daisy, looked for ways to give back.

“We bought gifts and took them to the hospital and cancer center,” Franco said. “We really just wanted to do something for other kids since Isaac was so well taken care of.”

Now, as the 2024 CMN champion family, the Francos hope to reach even more people across UC Davis Children’s Hospital’s vast 33-county service area. Their assignment is to help raise awareness about the importance of CMN’s work at the hospital.

“We are really excited to represent CMN,” Franco said. “If Isaac’s story can make a difference, we want to share it.”

Isaac remains cancer-free and he’s very active. He’s a talented tight end on a local football team and loves the Raiders.

A top student, Isaac has been recognized as the “peace builder of the year” at his school every year since kindergarten. His mom attributes his kindness to what he’s been through.

“I think his illness helped make him the person he is today,” Franco said. “He’s so kind and caring. I’m really proud of the person he has become.”