Seven years ago, my younger sister, Samantha, was diagnosed with epilepsy. Who would have thought that fluttering her eyes was actually a seizure? Sam didn’t seem herself, and so our pediatrician ordered a sleep-deprived electroencephalogram (EEG). This is a test that looks at how the brain works when it’s tired. At first, Sam thought it…
How babies develop, before and after birth, is nothing short of a miracle. But what happens when they are born prematurely, before they are ready for the sights, sounds and touches of the outside world? The answer may be in music. Music therapists specially trained to work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) are stepping…
For 13 consecutive years, David Miller, Norton Healthcare’s director of creative services has served as “chief elf” of the marketing and communications department’s Festival of Trees & Lights tree decorating committee. He oversees choosing a theme for the tree, purchasing and creating ornaments, arranging for the accompanying gift package and decorating the tree on-site. For…
Snow Ball Gala While you don’t have to be present to win, you may want to join us for the 30th anniversary of the Snow Ball gala! This magical night includes a cocktail hour, silent auction, gourmet meal, live entertainment and dancing to raise funds for Norton Children’s Hospital. Buy individual tickets The 2019 Norton…
The Festival of Trees & Lights, presented by Republic Bank, has helped kick off the holiday season in Louisville for the past 30 years. The festival and the Snow Ball gala have raised nearly $9.4 million, helping fund technology advancements and care at Norton Children’s Hospital. The Festival of Trees & Lights has become a…
In 2012, 11-year-old Jade Cain was diagnosed with a ruptured arteriovenous malformation (AVM), an abnormal cluster of veins and arteries in her brain. Treatment to cure the life-threatening bleed was successful, but it also caused radiation necrosis, the swelling and dying of brain tissue. As Jade’s condition devolved into extreme headaches, weight gain, and potentially…
The ketogenic diet (keto diet) is among the latest Hollywood health fads. Beyond the trendy hype, the ketogenic diet has made a world of difference in the lives of children with epilepsy. Research has shown that the keto diet, which has been around for decades, can reduce the frequency of a child’s seizures, especially…
Choking first aid such as the Heimlich maneuver for toddlers and back slaps for infants can prevent tragedy. Norton Children’s Prevention & Wellness cautions parents to always watch for choking hazards, but especially this time of year, as children tend to eat more candy and visit homes for holiday parties. Children, especially toddlers, like to…
Follow Norton Children’s on social media Facebook Twitter Instagram Halloween is a fun time at Norton Children’s locations throughout Louisville and Southern Indiana. Patients and staff at Norton Children’s facilities dressed up, trick-or-treated and celebrated the fun fall holiday together. Check out all of our Halloween fun below! NCH staff costume FB album: NWCH staff…
It’s difficult to know when to start toilet training. You may have many potty training questions and the truth is, there is no right, definitive age to start. The timing is unique to each child; you may notice the child displaying behaviors that let you know it’s time. Starting before a child is ready may…
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects up to 11% of American children, and Kentucky has the highest rate in the country — more than 18% — according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data. Despite the prevalence of ADHD, it is one of the most misunderstood chronic neurodevelopmental disorders. By debunking the myths and…
From working in a genetics lab to teaching yoga, Melissa Lee Perrotta, M.D., has found a way to blend all of her passions into one career. Her drive to understand and solve complex problems and her interest in integrative healing has led her to caring for patients with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD). She has…