Many parents fear the worst when they hear “sickle cell,” wondering whether their child will face lifelong health concerns. However, understanding the difference between sickle cell trait versus sickle cell disease is an important distinction when it comes to managing your child’s health. “Parents should know that sickle cell trait is not the same thing…
My baby sister, Avery, was only 3 when she was diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. I was a senior in high school, enjoying football games and hanging out with friends. I had no idea everything would change in a single weekend. Earlier that week, Avery had fallen out of bed and ended up with…
Everyone in Louisville knows there’s nothing quite like Kentucky Derby day. Whether you’re at Churchill Downs or celebrating at home with family and friends, the sights are often similar: big hats, fun suits and cheering for your favorite horse. But for the Furlong family, Derby Day 2024 will always be memorable — and not for…
At just 18 years old, Tara Goodwin faced every expectant mother’s worst fear: learning her unborn child might have a serious congenital medical condition. The beginning: An unexpected challenge During a routine prenatal appointment at 20 weeks, Tara’s OB/GYN delivered concerning news. Baby Huston was showing markers for a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), a rare congenital…
Caspian Kerley is a tenacious little fighter. From a 1-pound baby who had slim odds of surviving — to a 1-year-old who is now thriving, Caspian just might be proof that miracles can happen inside the tiny baby unit at Norton Children’s Hospital. Caspian’s mom, Shadow, experienced a journey to motherhood that was filled with…
Parenting a teenager comes with plenty of challenges, but when your teen seems more withdrawn, irritable or overwhelmed than usual, it’s natural to wonder: Is this normal adolescent behavior, or are they showing real symptoms of anxiety and depression in teens? You’re not alone in asking that question. Today’s teens are under a lot of…
Your child is now old enough for “the talk.” You’re probably wondering, where do you start? What do you say? How do you discuss details without making it weird? For many parents, talking to teens about sex and relationships can feel awkward or overwhelming. These conversations, however, are among the most important ones you’ll have…
Your kid is complaining about headaches, so you probably reach for the ibuprofen — but have you considered trying magnesium for migraine in children? Certain dietary supplements, or nutraceuticals, and other alternative therapies may help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine in children. “If your child experiences headaches, exploring safe alternative and complementary therapies…
When Gina Young gave birth to her daughter Willow, everything seemed perfect. After a smooth pregnancy and delivery, Willow came into the world healthy, crying and nursing well. Gina and her husband, Jarret, already had a thriving 2-year-old son named Maverick, and they brought Willow home just two days after her birth. Everything felt normal,…
Vaccines are a safe and essential part of keeping children healthy. They protect against serious illnesses like measles, whooping cough and polio — and help prevent the spread of disease to others, including babies and people with weakened immune systems. It’s normal for parents to have questions. Here is a guide to clear up common…
If your child has school anxiety — maybe they seem stressed about homework and tests, or they’ve recently told you they don’t feel like going to school — you’re not alone. Sometimes, elementary and middle school students face social or academic pressures that can cause negative feelings toward their school environment. “As kids get older,…
If your newborn is fussy and seems uncomfortable, especially after feeding, you might wonder whether they’re sick or just gassy. If it is normal gas, then what’s the best gas relief for babies? “Newborns cry for many reasons, and gas is often one of them,” said Heather M. Felton, M.D., pediatrician with Norton Children’s Medical…