The Return of ‘Little Vader’

We love happy endings around here, and one special little boy is well on his way to one.

You may not recognize Max Page’s face, but you’ll probably recognize this mini-Darth Vader’s Volkswagen commercial, featured during the 2011 Superbowl. Max is just seven years old and has already undergone eight operations for a congenital heart defect. 

Plus: Awesome Star Wars-Inspired Birthday Cake

Last month, doctors inserted a new pulmonary valve into his heart and now Max is recovering from his operation. His mom, Jennifer, says, “Our biggest challenge is just holding him back. He wants to run, and play, and be such an athlete.” Watch Max and his mom in an interview with the TODAY Show as they talk about his recovery—and he even thinks to congratulate Savannah Guthrie on her new co-hosting gig.

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