MEDICAL MIRACLE BABY AND HIS FAMILY ARE LATEST RECIPIENTS OF "EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION"

Celebrity Chef Paula Deen Serves Up the Surprise Announcement to The Simpson Family from Savannah, Georgia

On November 12, Carmen and Jim Simpson and their three children were enjoying a special Southern cooked breakfast from celebrity chef Paula Deen at her restaurant, located in Savannah, Georgia's historic district. Deen was honoring the Simpsons, along with other families, for their volunteer and charity work when the family learned that they would be the latest recipients of a home makeover as design team leader Ty Pennington and "EM: HE" designers emerged from the kitchen with the exciting news.

Just how Carmen and Jim Simpson and their three children were chosen is a wonderful story. But it could never compare to the amazing story of their son, Zo�, a medical miracle baby who has beaten the odds at every turn in his young life. When Zo� was born, he was given 24 hours to live. He came into the world prematurely with a deadly condition, as well as detached retinas that guaranteed blindness. Even if he did survive, the doctors said he would never breathe on his own, much less see or walk. But Zo� (which means "abundant life") confounded the experts as his eyes healed and his lungs began to work on their own. Surpassing every medical expectation and explanation, today Zo� is a happy two-year-old and, although developmentally delayed, continues to grow and thrive. The family feels so blessed after the miracle of Zo�'s recovery that they continue to repay the blessing as far and wide as possible. They look for ways to serve their community and even keep a wish list of things they want to do for others. But the Simpsons, who moved to Savannah for Zo� and his visits to the hospital, need a home that is more conducive to his medical needs. Still, despite their current living conditions, the family approach life's challenges with a hopeful and positive attitude.

The family also includes Isaac, 8, and four-year-old Katelyn. The Simpsons will all take a vacation to the Bahamas with Disney Cruise Line. Meanwhile, "EM: HE" design team leader Ty Pennington and designers Paul DiMeo, Tracy Hutson, Ed Sanders, local builder JT Turner Construction and community volunteers will rebuild their home.

The location address is: 3905 Abercorn St., Savannah, GA 31405

"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" is produced by Endemol USA, of Endemol Holding, and executive-produced by Brady Connell & George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America.