Hematology

Advocating for your child with sickle cell disease at school

If your child is diagnosed with sickle cell disease, they may require additional support at school. Symptoms of sickle cell disease can cause fatigue, pain episodes and frequent classroom absences. That’s why it’s important to notify the school of your child’s diagnosis: to advocate for their health, safety, academic progress, and support in their school…

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Hematology

Sickle cell trait versus sickle cell disease: What’s the difference?

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…

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Cancer, News, Patient Stories

My baby sister battled cancer: This is our story

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…

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Cancer, Patient Stories

It was more than a cold: Elijah’s journey with T-cell lymphoma

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…

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NICU

Huston’s journey: A mother’s story of hope and resilience

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…

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NICU

Caspian’s miracle: From 1-pound baby to thriving toddler

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…

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Cancer, Childrens Hospital Foundation

Finding healing in music and support through the community

Hospital halls are filled with sounds of beeping monitors, rolling carts and constant footsteps — a cacophony that can cause anxiety for kids and their families as they face a difficult time. Among all those sounds on the seventh floor at Norton Children’s Hospital, Trey found joy and comfort in music, and the resources to…

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Migraine Headaches, Neurosciences

Magnesium for migraine in children? Dietary supplements and alternative therapies 

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…

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Genetics, Neurosciences, NICU, Patient Stories

Willow Young and the rare genetic condition doctors caught just in time

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,…

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Kentucky Poison Control Center, Norton Childrens Medical Group, Prevention & Wellness

What is chroming? Inhaling fumes from household chemicals such as chrome spray paint can be deadly

Inhalant abuse has been a deadly problem for generations, but it has received a new boost of exposure through dangerous social media challenges. The “chroming” trend gets its name from metallic spray paint, but other household chemicals can be just as dangerous — nail polish remover, paint thinners, permanent marker, spray deodorant, lighter fluid and…

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Neurosciences, News, Patient Stories

How Ezekiel turned a childhood stroke into strength

When Ezekiel Nzombi was just 2 years old, his family faced a nightmare no parent expects. Ezekiel suddenly began showing alarming symptoms — loss of coordination, slurred speech and one-sided weakness. “He was playing with a basketball and suddenly fell and started crying,” said Megan Nzombi, Ezekiel’s mom. “I went to give him a drink….

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Cancer, Childrens Hospital Foundation, Foundation, News

Norton Children’s Cancer Institute announces new family resource center

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and Norton Children’s announced plans to create Norton Children’s Cancer Institute Resource Center, a space to support patients and families through every step of their cancer journey. The center, to be located on the eighth floor of the Novak Center for Children’s Health, will bring together a wide range of cancer…

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