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
CAR T-cell therapy helps young hockey fan ice pediatric leukemia
Due to COVID-19, Ava Girolimetti wasn’t sure if she would be starting middle school this year in a classroom, on a computer screen, or a combination of both. But thanks to CAR T-cell therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), she knew she would be there cancer-free. The rising sixth grader can make this claim as ... Read More about CAR T-cell therapy helps young hockey fan ice pediatric leukemia
Diagnosed with clubfeet before he was born: Gabriel’s story
Cheryl Bratt and her wife, Sue, expected a routine visit when they went in for their 18-week ultrasound. Cheryl, a professor, had scheduled the test before her morning class. The radiologist was reassuring through the entire ultrasound — until the end. “Then she told us the baby had clubfeet and we needed to see a specialist.” Just ... Read More about Diagnosed with clubfeet before he was born: Gabriel’s story
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
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
Hemophilia A gene therapy paves the way for a life with less pain
Matthew Harrington, a 35-year-old oil-field worker from Douglas, Wyoming, knows pain. Born with hemophilia A, a rare condition in which the blood doesn’t clot properly, Matt’s body — both inside and outside — has difficulty stopping bleeding. He has what’s considered the most severe form of hemophilia, characterized by frequent bleeding episodes, particularly in the ... Read More about Hemophilia A gene therapy paves the way for a life with less pain
A complex repair for Ruby’s heart
When Rebecca and Michael Stewart learned their baby would be born with a congenital heart condition, they reacted as any expectant parents would, with shock and fear. But they quickly moved into action, focused on finding the best care for their daughter before her birth. “At about 22 weeks into my pregnancy, Ruby was diagnosed ... Read More about A complex repair for Ruby’s heart
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
Asthma, softball, and COVID-19: Gwen’s story
Gwendolyn Castro has a competitive streak. Whether playing softball or debating topics like universal health care, the 15-year-old wants to be the best at whatever she does. Her mom, Alicia Cacho, doesn’t want Gwen’s asthma to hold her back in any way. Over the years, both have learned that the best way to keep asthma ... Read More about Asthma, softball, and COVID-19: Gwen’s story