In 2016 I began writing for Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Here are links to a few of the pieces I have written.
Patient stories
CGD and Bone Marrow Transplant: Tommy’s Story
A bone marrow transplant to treat chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) saved Tommy’s life and enabled him — and his family — to live a normal, happy life.
CAR T-Cell Therapy for Relapsed Leukemia: Mitch’s Story
Mitch suffered two relapses from acute lymphoblastic leukemia and was out of options until an experimental immunotherapy treatment at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia rid his body of cancer.
Conjoined Twins: Amelia and Allison’s Story
Amelia and Allison were born as conjoined twins, connected at the chest and abdomen. Surgery at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia separated them.
Cardiomyopathy and Heart Transplant: Joe’s Story
Joe had a near-fatal incident from cardiomyopathy. He was back on the soccer field six months after a heart transplant at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Makenzie’s Story
Makenzie suffered a terrifying illness when she was 7, a rapid decline in which she lost a quarter of her weight. With treatment at CHOP, she’s back to her healthy, happy self.
Lymphatic Leaks: Gracie’s Story
Her health failing a year ago due to a leak in her lymphatic system, Gracie is now a happy, healthy 5-year-old who loves ballet and gymnastics.
Health tip articles
Getting to and from School: The Real Safety Risk
If your child walks to school or rides a bus, this is a time to teach or remind your child about important safety rules.
High Cholesterol Can Be a Danger for Kids, Too
Risks for high cholesterol can start in childhood, so children between the ages of 9 and 11 should now be screened for high cholesterol.
Back to School, Back to Bedtime: Why Sleep Schedules Matter
As the summer ends and school and daycare schedules resume, it’s important to shift back to a healthy sleep routine. These tips will help you get back on track.
Belly Pain 101: What’s the Difference Between IBS and IBD?
Is your child’s tummy ache and diarrhea a normal, occasional experience or something more? Find out how to tell the difference and when to seek medical help.
Condition summaries
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
This behavior disorder is characterized by uncooperative, defiant, negativistic, irritable, and annoying behaviors toward parents, peers, teachers, and other authority figures.
Conduct Disorder
Conduct disorder is a set of serious emotional and behavior problems including rule-breaking, aggression, disregard for others, lying, or criminal activity.
Adherence and Self-management in Children with Chronic Medical Conditions
Children with adherence and self-management issues don’t regular take their medications, follow prescribed treatment actions or avoid unhealthy behaviors.