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Peter, a child with Down syndrome adopted from Hong Kong at the age of 3, has faced numerous health challenges throughout his life. His journey, including multiple surgeries and comprehensive care, is a testament to the importance of dedicated medical support. Peter’s health issues were first identified when his parents noticed he wasn’t thriving. After consulting several specialists, a podiatrist with training at Nemours Children’s referred them to Nemours Children’s Health. After several tests, Peter received a critical diagnosis: his C1-C2 vertebrae were not fused, posing a significant risk to his spinal cord. In September 2017, Peter underwent a lifesaving C1-C2 fusion surgery performed by Dr. William Mackenzie and Dr. Jeffrey Campbell at Nemours. Following the surgery, Peter showed remarkable improvements in various areas, including potty training, communication, and education. However, his journey was far from over as Peter was still experiencing complications with his foot. Further examinations with Dr. […]

During an annual scoliosis screening at Sayuri’s middle school, one of the nurses noticed something unusual about her back. “I remember the nurse checking my back and pointing out that I twisted more to one side, and there was asymmetry with one side rising higher than the other,” Sayuri shares. “She told me that the case is most likely mild or moderate, as the condition was common and those of a higher severity were rare. I was sent home with a letter to my parents to get my back checked.” Sayuri’s initial X-rays confirmed the nurse’s suspicions. “When I got my x-rays done, I was told that I had moderate scoliosis, with a recommendation for a back brace to keep the curve from progressing,” says Sayuri. The diagnosis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, characterized by a severe S curve, meant that her life would require some adjustments. As Sayuri grew older, […]

As a young athlete, Erin had faced her share of injuries, requiring her to go through physical therapy (PT) several times. These transformative experiences that ignited a passion within her. “The care I received sparked a desire to help others regain their ability to participate in the sports and activities they love,” Erin reflects. Initially, she envisioned a career focused on pediatric rehabilitation, driven by her understanding of the challenges young athletes face. However, during her physical therapy schooling, a neurology rotation at the MS Comprehensive Care Center exposed her to world of neurologic rehabilitation.” I was drawn to the complexity and challenge of working with the neurologic population and discovered a passion for adaptive equipment,” says Erin. After graduating, Erin gained valuable experience in both acute care and outpatient settings. Her skills and knowledge grew with each patient she treated. A few years into her career, she was encouraged […]

For 23 years, Bucky thrived in the dynamic and fast-paced world of the airline industry. “It was an exciting career that offered the opportunity to travel to places in the US and abroad,” Bucky reflects. But Bucky felt there was always something more he needed to do, a deeper sense of purpose that he couldn’t ignore. “There was always a feeling inside urging me to find a way to better help others.” Bucky grew up in a large family of ten children, where the values of service and community were deeply ingrained. Four of his brothers served their country through military service, and two of those four went on to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), while another became a Registered Nurse (RN). His sister, too, dedicated her life to nursing. Witnessing their dedication and the impact they had on others, Bucky began to see a clear path for himself. […]

In early May 2024, Freya was diagnosed with B-cell leukemia at just 5 years old. Her family’s world changed overnight. Support from Nemours Children’s helped them through. “Thankfully, everyone at the hospital has been incredibly supportive. They’ve not only provided expert care but also made us feel like part of a family, so we never felt alone. I connected with other families facing similar challenges, and I’m genuinely grateful we were guided to Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida. I wouldn’t choose any other place for her care.” Freya’s mother credits Nemours Children’s and Dr. Douglas for giving her hope. “Knowing that she cares deeply makes me feel relieved about the continuation of Freya’s care. I’m confident she will ring the bell in August 2026. Even if that doesn’t happen, I know that Dr. Douglas will do everything possible to support Freya. I used to worry endlessly, losing sleep and not eating, […]

When Faye was just 8 years old, a severe car accident changed her life in an instant, leading her and her family to Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware for critical treatment and reconstructive surgeries. The accident was a shock to Faye’s family. It quickly became clear that Faye needed specialized care, and Nemours Children’s was the place that could provide it. “We owe every single nurse, doctor, physical therapist, etc. that had a hand in her recovery,” says Faye’s mom. “From the night we came in as at emergency to the care she still receives, everything. They ensured that she was heard and supported, we were heard and supported, and she walked out of the hospital after a month of a stay.” Faye’s initial treatment was focused on stabilizing her condition and addressing the most urgent injuries. However, the road to recovery was a long one. One of the first major […]