When Andrew, now 28, reflects on his journey with Nemours Children’s Health, he describes it as nothing short of miraculous. Diagnosed with hepatoblastoma that had metastasized to his lungs and brain as a child, Andrew’s journey to recovery has been thanks to his expert medical care and unwavering support system. In November 1999, 3-year-old Andrew woke up in the middle of the night complaining of shoulder and abdomen pain. His parents, concerned, took him to the pediatrician in Augusta, Georgia, where appendicitis was initially suspected, and surgery scheduled. However, a perceptive surgeon, recalling a rare medical condition from his studies, insisted on further tests. The results were alarming: Andrew’s cancer markers were sky-high, pointing to a serious diagnosis. The local medical team quickly realized they needed specialized help, so he was transferred to a children’s hospital. The surgeons there reached out to Dr. Adela Casas-Melley, who was working at Nemours […]

Kathryn Sparger’s journey to becoming a Certified Child Life Specialist was inspired by her sister, who witnessed the incredible impact child life specialists have on patients and their families during her time in nursing school. This insight sparked Kathryn’s interest and set her on a path that she quickly fell in love with. “Child life is such a special career path,” Kathryn shares. “I’m so grateful to our kids and families who have invited me into their lives to care for them.” Kathryn always knew that Nemours Children’s Health was the place she wanted to be a part of. The supportive and mission-driven environment at our hospital in Orlando has allowed her to thrive and provide the best care possible for her patients. Working with the Hematology and Oncology team has been one of the highlights of Kathryn’s career. “I absolutely love my hem/onc team. They are true heroes. They […]

At 11 months old, Georgia has already shown incredible resilience and strength throughout her life. Diagnosed with isolated nonsyndromic unilateral craniosynostosis at 8 weeks of age, Georgia’s journey has been a whirlwind of medical appointments, treatments, and hopeful recovery. Karin and Edwin knew early on that something was different about their daughter, Georgia’s, head shape. They voiced their concerns during her 1-month and 2-month check-ups. At her 2-month appointment, the nurse practitioner conducted a thorough examination. It was then that they noticed an absence of the soft spot on the top of Georgia’s head. This was a critical moment for her family. Craniosynostosis is a condition where one or more seams between the bones in a child’s skull close too soon. This premature closure prevents the skull from growing properly and results in an abnormal head shape. If left untreated, craniosynostosis can increase intracranial pressure, leading to developmental problems, headaches, […]

When Marina was just 6 months old, her family noticed something unusual—her neck often fell to one side. This seemingly minor issue led to a series of medical consultations and diagnoses that would shape the future for Marina and her family. Diagnosed with torticollis and abnormally low muscle tone (hypotonia) by her pediatrician, Marina was referred to a neurologist at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida for further evaluation. Upon consulting with Nemours Children’s specialists, it was discovered that she was experiencing frequent seizures. “Various specialists conducted studies, leading to the discovery of congenital cytomegalovirus on February 2, 2022, just after her first birthday,” shares her mother, Kenialys. “This news left us shocked, confused, sad, anxious, and scared. However, the dedicated care from healthcare professionals at Nemours helped us regain optimism and hope for Marina’s future.” Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is closely related to the viruses responsible for chickenpox and mononucleosis (mono). Babies infected […]

Jessica, 12-year-old Billy’s mother, recalls the summer of 2022 when they noticed something unusual during their family getaway. “While on vacation, we discovered he had an anal fistula,” she recounts. In April of the following year, Billy experienced his first flare-up, ultimately leading to a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease. Located in their hometown, Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida became a regular visit for Jessica and Billy. “We have lived in Lake Nona for over 11 years,” says Jessica, so they were already familiar with the Nemours Children’s location. From the moment they stepped through the doors, they were greeted by a team of dedicated professionals led by gastroenterologist Dr. Pablo Palomo. Reflecting on their experiences with the Nemours team, Jessica highlights the genuine care and compassion in each interaction. “Billy’s liked everyone he’s ever interacted with,” says Jessica. “My favorite thing about them is how special they make me feel, even […]

Jonathan decided to become a nurse after his grandfather was diagnosed with bladder cancer. He was inspired by the many great nurses that cared for his grandfather at home and inpatient. Around the time he was graduating high school he was thinking about careers to pursue. Jonathan says, “I knew I liked working with people, and most of all I liked helping. Nursing fit into those categories perfectly and that’s what led me to apply to nursing school.” But Jonathan’s story here at Nemours Children’s Health is unique. Here’s his incredibly unique journey in his own words: In April of 2023, I was running in the Mimosas for Marrow 5K that is hosted by a previous oncology patient and her family. At this 5K I connected with the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), who added me to the national donor database. In November, I then found out that I had […]