Patient Stories

These kids have had more than their bodies treated at Children's - they have learned how to cope with their illness, how to get back to their lives, and so many have shown a strength of spirit that has inspired both their family and care team.  Enjoy!

 

Cracking the Case for Lacey

Multidisciplinary team at Children's pieces together clues to save a little Modesto girl's life

Lacey Roche’s deteriorating health, with frequent vomiting, intense episodes of pain and severe emaciation, posed quite the mystery. No one could figure out what was causing her symptoms until a determined team of pediatric subspecialists at Children’s Hospital Central California pieced together clues from a series of tests and uncovered the diagnosis.

Lacey had a rare genetic metabolic disorder with only about 100 cases reported worldwide. Her case was even more unique in that it was the earliest ever diagnosed.  Read More»

 

Happy Days for Jacob

At 2 months old, Jacob “Jake” Byrom began turning blue. His oxygen levels plummeted to a dangerous 50-to-60 percent range, far below the optimal 100 percent mark. He was quickly flown from Bakersfield to Children’s Hospital Central California, where Dr. Edwin Petrossian of the cardiac surgery team awaited.

“It was the scariest moment of our lives,” said Jake’s father, Monty.  Read More»

 

Isaiah's Trek

At 6 months his pediatrician noticed Isaiah’s head seemed larger than normal. He soon began getting ill frequently, suffering high fevers, vomiting and having seizures. It was unclear what was causing Isaiah’s symptoms and his parents, Julie and Erin Garcia, turned to Children’s Hospital for help.

Isaiah was referred to Children’s pediatric neurosurgery department. Dr. Meredith Woodward, a neurosurgeon, gave the Garcias an answer. She diagnosed their son with hydrocephalus, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive accumulation of fluid in the brain.  Read More»

 

Anna's Journey

Ability to wear first pair of flip-flops puts smile on toddler's face

Warmer weather means more than family trips to the beach and outdoor barbecues for 4-year-old Anna Barcelos. After undergoing pediatric plastic surgery at Children’s Hospital to improve congenital deformities of her left hand and feet, Anna especially looks forward to what most people take for granted: wearing flip-flops.

“I can’t wait!” said Anna, giggling...  Read More»