When we were first introduced to Jaxon Strong, a child born with half his brain and skull missing, he had just celebrated his 1st birthday-a milestone his parents never thought he’d reach.

Dubbed a “miracle baby,” Jaxon stole our hearts last August, with his curious, bright blue eyes and blond ringlets. We followed up with Jaxon when he said “I love you” for the first time and watched him fulfill every child’s dream of meeting Santa, but now, as Jaxon’s parents prepare for his second birthday, the story of how he’s defied the odds has become all the more topical. Read the full story here ▶