Miles for Jack: Robin sequence and the bond between a family and doctor
For runners and non-runners alike, next week’s Boston Marathon is extra special. It marks a beloved tradition for the city, and for many, it’s a chance to once again run for those who can’t and bring awareness to causes worth fighting for. For 6-year-old Jack Ryan, this year’s marathon is a chance to cheer on ... Read More
When a critically ill child is homeless
On a single night in 2020, roughly 172,000 in families with children and 34,000 unaccompanied youth under age 25 were homeless, according to government figures. Many more families are housing insecure amid skyrocketing rents. A large body of research finds that both situations put children at increased risk for health problems. Parents may have ... Read More
Targeting treatments for vascular anomalies, courtesy of cancer genetics
Vascular anomalies — overgrowths or malformations of the capillaries, veins, arteries, and/or lymphatic vessels — often confound physicians, especially in acute settings. They encompass a diverse group of conditions, all of them rare, and can affect multiple body systems. Many physicians have never encountered vascular anomalies and may be unaware of the risks they sometimes ... Read More
Using genetics to glimpse newborns’ future with congenital heart disease
Aside from infections, congenital heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of infant mortality. Informed by babies she sees in the NICU, Sarah Morton, MD, PhD, attending physician in the Division of Newborn Medicine at Boston Children’s, has devoted her career to understanding CHD’s genetic causes. Her findings are shedding light on what parents and ... Read More
Kids with special health care needs can take small steps toward dental visits
This is the second of a two-part series offering dental advice to the parents of children with special health care needs. A visit to the dentist can be an overwhelming experience for children with special health care needs. Like many people, they might feel uncomfortable with dental picks and drills. Or, favoring the rhythm of ... Read More
Parents: Start dental care early for children with special health care needs
This is the first of a two-part series offering dental tips to the parents of children with special health care needs. The texture of a toothbrush’s bristles can be enough to make dental hygiene an uncomfortable undertaking for children with special health care needs. And because children with autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other conditions are ... Read More
Letters from the heart: “Life will be better”
Children with congenital heart disease (CHD) have much to think about as they undergo tests, try medications, and face possible surgery. These adults know what that’s like. To celebrate National Heart Month, here are their words of encouragement. Frank Collins, 63 I loved basketball as a kid, but when I played I would get tired ... Read More
Relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S): When athletes run on empty
The strength, skill, and speed of Olympic athletes help the rest of us understand human potential in a new light. But athletic glory can come at a high price. The quest to be the best can drive some athletes into punishing training routines, denying themselves of food and other basic needs. Whether training for the ... Read More
Fancy footwork: Two figure skating experts on injury prevention
Amazing costumes, breathtaking artistry, and outstanding athleticism. No wonder figure skating is a Winter Olympics must-watch for millions of people. With the 2022 games fast approaching, Dr. Ellen Geminiani of Boston Children’s Sports Medicine Division has some insights for aspiring athletes watching these spectacles on ice. “I hope young skaters will think about how much ... Read More
Kira’s story: how a diagnosis of fatty liver disease nourished a lasting lifestyle change
Kira’s journey with fatty liver disease began about six years ago, when imaging for other medical reasons showed areas of concern with her liver. Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat is stored in the liver; it can lead to progressive liver disease and is the most common pediatric liver disease in the country. The ... Read More