Archive for Jessica Cerretani
No longer just ‘getting through the day’: Addressing Lucie’s chronic pain
Lucie Robert had always been an engaged and active kid: At just 10 years old, she loved Nordic skiing, dancing, and playing the cello. Yet she was also prone to injury, sometimes on crutches because of minor twists and sprains. Even after a series of minor dislocations led to a diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) ... Read More about No longer just ‘getting through the day’: Addressing Lucie’s chronic pain
Two recent innovations in aerodigestive care
Feeding disorders are extremely common in pediatrics and are a source of significant stress for families. Because many complex feeding disorders lack treatment options, children tend to receive nutrition by feeding tubes as a result. The Aerodigestive Center at Boston Children’s Hospital has been at the forefront of developing novel therapies for feeding disorders. Two ... Read More about Two recent innovations in aerodigestive care
Unraveling the mystery of Rylan’s respiratory problems
Rylan is Destinee Davidson’s second child, but in some ways, he feels like her first. “Our older son, Bryce, has always been healthy,” she explains. “With Rylan, I feel like a first-time mom because everything is so new.” Rylan has been keeping Destinee and her husband, Bradford, on their toes since the day he was ... Read More about Unraveling the mystery of Rylan’s respiratory problems
Maythum finally finds answers for midaortic syndrome
Maythum Mehdi was just 5 years old when he told his mother, Batul, that he was having trouble seeing: When he played on the computer, the screen appeared blurry. Right away, Batul — who was then training to be a cardiology nurse — sought medical attention. “I knew that wasn’t a good sign,” she says. ... Read More about Maythum finally finds answers for midaortic syndrome
Seeing what’s possible: Pediatric stroke doesn’t slow James down
James Veling is only 6 years old, but he has a whole bag of medals. He’s won them by placing in various Spartan obstacle races and 5Ks, sometimes besting multiple adults in the process. James is following in the footsteps of his father, David — literally. “I started running a few years ago, partly as ... Read More about Seeing what’s possible: Pediatric stroke doesn’t slow James down
COVID and suicidal thoughts: Help for families
Earlier this month, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released stark new figures on mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. One in four young adults (age 18 to 24) surveyed reported seriously considering suicide during the previous 30 days — an increase from years past. Rates of suicidal thoughts were also high in ... Read More about COVID and suicidal thoughts: Help for families
From Alabama for answers: Adella’s thyroid journey
She may only be 12 years old, but Adella Jackson has already expanded her family’s perspective. “She’s broadened our horizons,” says her mother, Cindy. “If it wasn’t for Adella, we never would have gotten to visit Boston, for example.” The Jacksons, who hail from Alabama, have loved exploring the city’s rich history and art museums ... Read More about From Alabama for answers: Adella’s thyroid journey
Doing everything possible for Gabby: A team approach to short bowel syndrome
Gabriel “Gabby” Lopez loves everything hot and spicy. “He will eat a ghost pepper without hesitation,” says his mother, Mayra. “He eats more spicy food than a grown man.” It’s an impressive feat, not only because Gabby is just 3 years old, but also because he has spent the majority of his life receiving his ... Read More about Doing everything possible for Gabby: A team approach to short bowel syndrome
Treatment for anorectal malformation gives Steven freedom and confidence
Steven York has “come a very long way,” says his mother, Beth — both literally and figuratively. In just seven years, he’s traveled from China to a new home in South Carolina, made multiple visits to Boston, and undergone a series of complex but ultimately life-changing surgical procedures. According to his adoption and hospital notes, ... Read More about Treatment for anorectal malformation gives Steven freedom and confidence
Matt’s story: An innovative approach to midaortic syndrome
Until he was 12-and-a-half, Matt Sarracco had hardly missed a day of school. In fact, he had won awards for his near-perfect attendance. So it was concerning when, at a routine physical, his blood pressure soared to extremely high levels. “At first we thought the cuff must be broken,” says his mother, Kelly. But subsequent ... Read More about Matt’s story: An innovative approach to midaortic syndrome