Braden West’s parents were told he would not live long after birth. He was born with Pfeiffer Syndrome Type 2, a genetic condition that affects skull and facial growth. Doctors believed he wouldn’t survive past 18 months.
Two weeks before his birth, a scan showed abnormalities. His parents were heartbroken. They felt like their world had fallen apart. His mother, Cheri, even prayed for him to be taken home before birth, thinking his condition was too severe.
But everything changed when Braden was born. Despite the doctors’ predictions, his mother immediately bonded with him. They took him home so he could be with loved ones rather than spending his last moments in a hospital.
Surprisingly, Braden started improving. He underwent 30 medical procedures, including a tracheotomy at age three. One operation had only a 10% survival rate. His parents were prepared for the worst. They even signed DNR papers. But instead of bad news, doctors were shocked—Braden survived.
His journey wasn’t easy, but he never gave up. A nurse, Michele Eddings Linn, supported him through his toughest times. At one point, she even prayed for him, saying, “Lord, either take him home or make him better.” Braden pulled through, and she later said he was the only patient she had ever seen leave hospice care.
Years passed, and Braden continued to prove everyone wrong. He graduated high school, something doctors never thought possible. Michele took photos of his graduation day, saying it was emotional for her because, years ago, she thought his life was ending.
His mother, Cheri, was overwhelmed with pride. Doctors had said he wouldn’t talk, write, or even see—but here he was, walking across the stage.
Braden’s achievements didn’t stop there. At 22, he became a volunteer firefighter. His message to others? “Don’t give up. Keep climbing the mountain, no matter how hard it is. The view from the top is worth it.”