KIDSTUFF Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
Summer 2021
Worth the Wait
Pandemic delay makes complex surgery all the sweeter for Rhett Harmon
Update on Our Mental Health Initiative Lighting the Way Campaign Announces Fundraising Goal
Zoe Irby and mom Cheyenne, of Norfolk, enjoy a routine follow-up visit with Dr. Michael Vance, a pediatric cardiologist at CHKD. Zoe was born prematurely with a heart condition and needed a ventilator to help her breathe. Fortunately, Dr. Vance was able to repair Zoe’s tiny heart with a non-surgical procedure using the new Amplatzer Piccolo Occluder device. Dr. Vance was among the first doctors in the country trained on the Piccolo device, and Zoe was the first baby at CHKD to undergo this advanced treatment.
Contents 2 Welcome to the
SUMMER 2021
Family
4 Mental Health Update 8 Tackling the Challenges of COVID-19 10 Worth the Wait
OUR BOARDS OF DIRECTORS (As of May 2021)
Children’s Health System Akhil Jain, Chair Martha Colen Susan R. Einhorn
Pandemic delay makes complex surgery all the sweeter for Rhett Harmon
R. Justin Fulton
Kieran Poulos Marta S. Satin-Smith, MD Brian Skinner Elly Bradshaw Smith
Owen Griffin
Svinder S. Toor, MD
Kevin Murphy
More room for the smallest patients
Robert J. Obermeyer, MD
Kim Georges Miles Leon Scott Nottingham, MD
Kathryn M. Van Buren Stacey Vellines Edward D. Whitmore
Children’s Health Foundation
14 Comfort and Smiles
President/CEO Jim Dahling
Jim Dahling
12 Our New NICU
Kidstuff is a publication of Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters 601 Children’s Lane, Norfolk, VA 23507 (757) 668-7043
Larry Bernert, Chair
Innovative inpatient unit for kids with cancer and blood disorders
16 Donor Spotlight: Wendy Goldberg 18 Donor Spotlight: Mitch Sandlin 19 The King’s Daughters Celebrates 125 Years 20 Calendar
Dan Boyle
Carrie Lauck
Mark Compton
Mike Matacunas
Jim Dahling
Merrick McCabe
Kimberley Geiger
Kim McMillan
Doug Hillebrandt
Matthew Nusbaum
Trey Huelsberg Kelly Johnson
Karen Priest Kay Stockwell
The King’s Daughters Stacey J. Vellines, President Paula Adams Beth Bryant Laura Fulton
Ame McCullin Taylor Priest Kathy Protogyrou
Chandy Jones
Sunny Barlow Sonner
Katherine M. Knaus
Ashley Friend Vellines
Carrie L. Lauck
Carrie Williams
Nicole Federinko Legum
Kidstuff Editorial Team EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Amy Sampson
MANAGING EDITOR
Ridgely Ingersoll
EDITOR
Heather Kent
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Alice Warchol
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Eric Cardenas
MEDICAL EDITOR
Arno Zaritsky, MD
© 2021 Children’s Health System Inc.
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PHOTOGRAPH BY Ken Mountain. Photo taken pre-pandemic.
CHKD.org
SUMMER 2021
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Welcome to the
Family
CHKD SURGICAL GROUP Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Peter Moskal, MD, a pediatric orthopedic spine surgeon, received his medical degree from Eastern Virginia Medical School and did his residency at the University of North Carolina. He completed a fellowship in pediatric orthopedics at Duke University Hospital. Dr. Moskal’s clinical interests include scoliosis and spinal deformity, pediatric fracture care, pediatric foot and ankle deformity, and pediatric sports medicine.
Plastic and Oral Maxillofacial Surgery Yifan Guo, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in pediatric and craniofacial reconstruction and aesthetic surgery. He received his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania and completed his residency at Brown University/Rhode Island Hospital-Lifespan along with a craniofacial fellowship at Johns Hopkins Hospital. He has special interest in peripheral nerve and migraine surgery, facial clefts, hand surgery, and mandibular distraction. Edward Santee, DDS, MD, is a pediatric oral and maxillofacial surgeon whose clinical interests include treating children with cleft lip and palate and craniofacial differences, including craniosynostosis. Dr. Santee received his medical degree from the University of Michigan and did his residency at University of Michigan Hospital. He completed a fellowship focused on cleft and craniofacial surgery at El Paso Children’s Hospital.
CHKD MEDICAL GROUP Chesapeake Pediatrics Andria Wallen, DO, is a board-certified pediatrician at Chesapeake Pediatrics, where she was a patient growing up and found inspiration to become a doctor. Dr. Wallen attended Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, Va., and completed her residency at CHKD, serving as chief resident. Dr. Wallen has a passion for newborn care and development as well as caring for medically complex children.
General Booth Pediatrics Kristen Simon, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician who grew up in Hampton Roads. She earned her medical degree as well as a master’s in public health at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans. She completed her residency at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. Dr. Simon has a special interest in newborn care and working with families to create healthy lifestyles together.
Liberty Pediatrics Rachel Mayer, MD, is a pediatrician whose clinical interests include pediatric mental health, breastfeeding, and teaching future physicians. Dr. Mayer grew up in Chesapeake and attended medical school at Eastern Virginia Medical School. She completed her residency at CHKD.
Norfolk Pediatrics Charisse Carter, DO, received her medical degree at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. She did her residency at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. Dr. Carter enjoys taking care of children of all ages, but especially loves seeing her newborn patients develop.
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CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF THE KING’S DAUGHTERS Child Advocacy Center Hayley Sooknarine, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician who discovered her passion for the care of children suffering abuse or neglect during her residency at State University of New York at Buffalo. Dr. Sooknarine graduated from the University College Dublin School of Medicine in Ireland and completed a fellowship at Emory University.
CHILDREN’S SPECIALTY GROUP Mental Health Jana Elliker, DO, is a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist who grew up in Hampton Roads and received her medical degree at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her residency and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Maryland-Sheppard Pratt. Kevin Johnson, DO, is a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist with special interest in evidencebased collaborative care. He attended Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine then completed his residency in psychiatry and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine. Lana Mahgoub, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist who received her doctorate in psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She provides evidence-based and culturally relevant therapy and testing services. A former school psychologist, she helps families who need clinical support and guidance navigating school-related challenges and services. Pamela Murillo, PhD, was raised in New York City, and received her doctorate in psychology at the University of Rhode Island. As a licensed clinical psychologist, she uses various forms of behavioral therapy along with mindfulness practices to help children, adolescents, and their families thrive and grow.
Nephrology Alexandra Idrovo, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician and pediatric nephrologist who received her medical degree from the University of Guayaquil in Ecuador. She did her residency at John H. Stroger, Jr., Hospital of Cook County in Chicago, and completed a fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.
Pulmonology Carlos Sendon, MD, is a pediatric pulmonary and sleep medicine specialist whose clinical interests include asthma, recurrent pneumonia, and sleep-breathing disorders. Dr. Sendon received his medical degree from the University of San Martin De Porres in Lima, Peru, and did his residency in pediatrics at Eastern Virginia Medical School. He completed a pediatric pulmonary fellowship at Yale School of Medicine and a sleep medicine fellowship at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
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MENTAL HEALTH UPDATE
Initiative Attracts Top-Notch Talent
Members of the CHKD mental health staff gather at the construction site of the new Children’s Pavilion with their leadership team, including (front row, L to R) Amy Sampson, senior vice president, chief engagement and innovation officer; Jack Warburton, vice president of mental health services; Stephanie Osler, LCSW, director of mental health services; Dr. Carl Petersen, chief of psychiatry and mental health services; Dr. Mary Margaret Gleason, vice chief of mental health services; Alice Mullinary, RN, director of mental health nursing; Diana Schofield, director of psychology; and Dr. Daniel Spencer, associate chief of mental health services.
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PHOTOGRAPH BY Ken Mountain
of Pediatrics and the American Academy of CHKD’s historic and transformative Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. “Mental health commitment to pediatric mental health has problems don’t get better on their own,” she says. resulted in the recruitment of top-notch talent, “We need to offer children and families tools, skills, despite a severe nationwide shortage of mental therapy, and in some cases, medication, so they health providers. In 2018, our mental health can function to the best of their ability, learn, make program had a single child and adolescent friends, and build relationships.” psychiatrist. Today, we have 10 and are on our Dr. Daniel Spencer serves as associate chief way to reaching the total required to provide a of mental health services at CHKD. His primary comprehensive array of inpatient and outpatient clinical responsibilities are in consultation-liaison mental health services. and emergency psychiatry, and he is actively Taking the helm and leading this rapid growth engaged in the development and coordination is Dr. Carl Petersen, CHKD’s new chief of psychiatry of inpatient and intensive programs for the new and mental health services. A retired U.S. Navy facility. “I am so proud of CHKD and my colleagues,” captain, Dr. Petersen brings a wealth of experience he says. “This is the overseeing mental “This new hospital represents opportunity of a lifetime. health initiatives and programs. He spent hope to our children and families.” We are bringing the best that mental health the last 10 years of – Dr. Carl Petersen, CHKD’s chief of psychiatry care can offer to this his military career at and mental health services. community.” Naval Medical Center Before joining CHKD, Dr. Spencer served as Portsmouth, retiring as its director of mental psychiatry co-director of Hasbro Children’s health. “CHKD is a very special place,” says Petersen. Hospital’s integrated care medical psychiatric “It is woven into the fabric of this community. This inpatient program. He is triple board certified new hospital represents hope to our children and in pediatrics, psychiatry, and child and families, and a remarkable opportunity for all of us adolescent psychiatry. to make a significant impact on their future.” In addition to these key leaders, the total Dr. Mary Margaret Gleason, vice chief of number of mental health employees at CHKD CHKD’s mental health services, is heading up has more than doubled – growing from 30 to 73, our academic and research efforts. Dr. Gleason with a few hundred more to come. is triple board certified in pediatrics, general “We’re very proud of the talented team we are psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. assembling,” says Dr. Petersen. “And the community She is a national figure in the mental health is already benefiting from our progress. From arena, recognized for leading residency training 2015 to 2020, we increased the number of mental programs at Tulane and Brown University medical health visits by 500 percent.” schools and contributing to mental health treatment guidelines for the American Academy
Carl Petersen, DO Chief of Psychiatry and Mental Health Services
Mary Margaret Gleason, MD Vice Chief of Mental Health Services
Daniel Spencer, MD Associate Chief of Mental Health Services
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MENTAL HEALTH UPDATE
Building a Brighter Future
The centerpiece of CHKD’s mental health initiative is our new pediatric mental health hospital and outpatient center, now under construction on our Norfolk campus. The 14-story, $224 million Children’s Pavilion will stand out among the nation’s top pediatric mental health hospitals for its thoughtful patient- and family-centered design, evidence-based treatments, academic training programs, and clinical research to guide innovation. “Even before the pandemic, our youth were in crisis. Today, the need is even greater,” says Jim Dahling, president and CEO of CHKD Health System. “A decade ago, visits to our emergency department for mental health concerns were rare. Now, we are seeing five to 10 children in crisis every day. One recent evening, we cared for an 11-year-old who had attempted suicide for the second time, a 15-year-old with extremely aggressive behavior who was threatening to harm his parents and himself, and a 9-year-old who was hearing voices.” “These are not extreme examples,” he says. “Our children are dying every day by suicide. The time is now, and the responsibility is ours, to provide the mental health services our children need.” 6
Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
Support from the community is vital to achieving this goal. The Lighting the Way campaign, led by a cabinet of community leaders and philanthropists, recently announced a fundraising goal of $60 million to bring this immense project to completion. Thanks to many individuals, foundations, and organizations who provided early support, $50 million has already been raised toward this goal. “We are in awe of the early support this project has received,” says Lighting the Way Cabinet Chair John Lawson. “Now, we are asking for help from our broader community to stretch even further. Every gift will have an impact and nothing will make a greater difference to our community than this initiative. I believe this to be one of the most important projects I’ve ever been involved with, and I hope everyone will consider helping us deliver these critical programs to the children who so desperately need them.” As construction progresses, the important work of creating the safe, welcoming, family-centered environment inside the tower is in full swing. Construction is on schedule for a planned opening of outpatient services in April of 2022, followed by the launch of inpatient care in late summer.
GOAL
$60 MILLION
$5 0 RA MILL ISE ION D
Campaign Goal: $60 Million Amount Raised to Date: $50 Million
83%
Our children are in crisis. Suicide is now the second-leading cause of death in children ages 10-24. We can change this trajectory, but we need your help. With full funding, our new hospital can ease suffering, restore potential, and save precious lives. Families can find the care and support they need close to home. And our entire community will benefit for generations to come. Please join us, and the visionary philanthropists who have already made commitments, in making our children’s mental health a priority. Together, we can light the way to a brighter future for all children. Visit CHKD.org/LightingTheWay to learn more about how you can support CHKD’s mental health initiative.
Visionary Philanthropists
We would like to express our deep gratitude to the following individuals, foundations, and organizations who provided critical early support of CHKD’s mental health initiative at the $100,000 level or greater. As of June 3, 2021
Langley for Families Foundation John and Paige Lawson Mid Atlantic Dairy Queen Norfolk Southern Corporation Oh Family and Obermeyer Family Jim Squires and Karen Jones Squires TowneBank Foundation W.M. Jordan Company Katherine and John Wynne Family Fund Susan S. and John O. Wynne
$500,000-$999,999
$5,000,000+ Kenneth A. and Patricia A. Hall Charitable Foundation The Landmark Foundation
$1,000,000-$4,999,999 Anonymous Kay Abiouness Children’s Specialty Group, PLLC Ferguson Enterprises Hampton Roads Community Foundation The King’s Daughters Langley Federal Credit Union
Beazley Foundation The Benjack Family Foundation The George and Grace Dragas Family Foundation The Goode Family Foundation The Family of Conrad Hall The Estate of Gary Tignor We Promise Foundation
$250,000-$499,999 Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group Charles, Susan, and Lexie Barker Birdsong Peanuts
Lilly and Bruce Bradley The Compton Family Foundation Claudia and Michael Cuddyer Dominion Energy John and Joyce Fain The Heidt Family Foundation The Leon Family Stephanie and Joseph McSweeney Richard and Shaune Meredith Bonnie and Wick Moorman Norfolk Tug Company Alison J. and Ella W. Parsons Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation Diane and Rodney Sawyer
$100,000-$249,999 Anonymous (3) Atlantic Coast Mortgage, LLC Bernert Family The CHAS Foundation Todd and Robin Copeland Family Mary and Jim Dahling The Hansen Family Foundation Akhil and Nita Jain Kaufman and Canoles PC
Drs. Cynthia and Robert Kelly Sally and Jake Magarity Linda Lowrance and George Owens Arnold and Oriana McKinnon Family Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation Mr. and Mrs. W. Sheppard Miller, III Marietta McNeil Morgan and Samuel Tate Morgan, Jr. Trust Kevin and Mindy Murphy The Neikirk Family OVM Financial PF&A Design Architects PRA Group, Inc. The Pruden Foundation Lynne and Bill Shepherd The Steingold Family STIHL Incorporated Tidewater Children’s Foundation Bill and Katie Van Buren Walker & Laberge Company Preston and Catharine White Foundation Frederick and Karen Whyte Family Foundation
Lighting the Way Cabinet John Lawson, II, Chair James Squires, Chair Emeritus Buffy Barefoot
Edward “Buzz” Heidt, Jr.
Frances Luter
Chris Neikirk
Elly Bradshaw Smith
Frank Batten, Jr.
Diane Kiger
David J. Benjack
Miles Leon
Joe McSweeney
Karen Priest
Kathryn Van Buren
J.D. Myers
Brian Skinner
Susan Wynne
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Tackling the Challenges of COVID-19
Providing care safely while protecting patients, staff, and families
Cahmeil Edmond, age 5, and Tiffaney Wallace, of Portsmouth, have their temperature taken by Meaghan Minori during screening for COVID-19 in the CHKD hospital lobby.
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Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
On any given day, operating a regional health system with more than 3,000 employees in more than 40 locations is a complex endeavor. We have to be ready to deliver the care we’ve scheduled along with whatever unplanned challenges may come our way, from a hurricane, to a school bus accident, to a virus no one has ever seen before. When COVID-19 hit in early 2020, CHKD quickly implemented a Hospital Incident Command System (HICS), an emergency response structure designed by the government specifically for hospitals. Our HICS team consisted of approximately 20 individuals from across the organization, including clinical, administrative, and logistical representatives. Karen Mitchell, CHKD’s chief nursing officer and vice president of patient care services, stepped up to serve as incident commander, overseeing CHKD’s response to the COVID-19 threat. In daily meetings, which included CHKD’s senior leaders, the HICS team shared guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Virginia Department of Health as well as feedback from our physicians, support staff, and patient families, to develop policies and guidelines to treat COVID patients safely while working to protect other patients, families, staff members, and the public from the illness. “It was a monumental effort since everyone needed to continue doing their regular jobs, which were already very busy,” says Mitchell. The work involved every branch of the health system, from the main hospital, to the health centers and urgent care locations, to the offices of every CHKD pediatrician and specialist along with physicians outside of CHKD who turned to us for guidance. To ensure the safety of our care, CHKD rapidly deployed telemedicine options for patient visits across the system and established protocols to make in-person visits as safe as possible. Many office workers transitioned to remote work environments, and virtual meetings became the norm to keep operations going. Collaboration and communication, both within the health system and with our colleagues, patients, and families, were essential to keep everyone on the same page and up to date on rapidly changing guidance. The HICS team issued frequent
communications and our pediatric experts offered regular guidance and advice to families through media appearances, news stories, online blogs, email communications, and more. Our clinical staff shared data and guidance with regional, state, and national organizations to help strengthen COVID testing, tracking, mitigation, and treatment. Thankfully, CHKD never experienced the massive influx of critically ill patients that some adult hospitals had to grapple with. We were ready for them; but, as a group, children fared better than adults in the pandemic. After a spike of cases in the fall, a glimmer of hope came for all of us in December with the FDA approval of two COVID vaccines.
“As challenging as it’s been, we have learned so much that will serve us well in caring for patients in the future.” – Karen Mitchell, CHKD’s chief nursing officer and vice president of patient care services CHKD received its first vaccine shipments before Christmas. Vaccines were offered to all staff members according to a priority matrix developed by the Virginia Department of Health. Nurses came back from retirement to help operate a daily vaccination clinic in the hospital. Vaccines were distributed to our pediatric practices to administer to our most vulnerable patients who met the current age criteria, and doctors and nurses volunteered to work in special vaccination sessions held in our health centers. We also vaccinated staff at partner facilities like St. Mary’s Home and Ronald McDonald House. The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the lessons learned, and the advancements we have made during this time will improve the care that CHKD provides for years to come. “The resilience of the staff is what gets me up every morning,” says Mitchell, who worked 12-hour days, seven days a week, for months. “As challenging as it’s been, we have learned so much that will serve us well in caring for patients in the future.” SUMMER 2021
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Rhett Harmon was just a few months old when he was diagnosed with a condition that was causing the bones in his skull to fuse together too early. The problem, called craniosynostosis, made his head look narrow and misshapen. Without correction, it could cause developmental delays because his brain wouldn’t have the room it needed during its first years of rapid growth. Knowing their baby needed surgery was frightening, so Rhett’s parents, Cassie and Layne Harmon, did their homework. They researched all their options and checked out the best doctors, not just in the western part of the state where they lived, but everywhere. Even though the Craniofacial Center at CHKD was a four-hour drive from their home in Covington, Va., they scheduled an appointment with Dr. Jesus Inciong, a renowned pediatric plastic surgeon and director of the center. “When I met him, I knew he was the doctor for Rhett,” says Cassie. “The two of them immediately had a bond. When we left Dr. Inciong’s office, I had a whole new perspective. He made us feel so at ease with the diagnosis and the knowledge of what CHKD could do to fix it. His bedside manner is something all doctors should have.” The craniofacial team sees 800 patients and performs 200 surgical procedures a year to correct craniofacial abnormalities. The center’s multidisciplinary team includes plastic and oral maxillofacial surgeons, ENT surgeons, neurosurgeons, a medical geneticist, counselors, speech therapists, and others to tailor care to each patient’s specific needs. Rhett’s surgery was scheduled for March of last year. The couple was nervous that COVID-19 was circulating, but they knew the best time for Rhett to have the surgery was before he turned 1 in November, because his bones would still be soft and pliable. Four days before the surgery, however, Karen Via, RN, the Craniofacial Center coordinator, had to call Cassie and Layne. The state was halting all elective surgeries as part of its effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. There was no way to know when the surgery could be rescheduled. The Harmons unpacked their bags and called their relatives. They were disappointed, but they understood. 10
Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
The staff at the Craniofacial Center was just one of dozens of surgical teams at CHKD who regularly touched base with anxious families during this period. Frequent appointments, many via telehealth, allowed surgeons to monitor their patients’ conditions, in case the need for an elective procedure became more urgent. In that situation, a surgery could be scheduled. Rhett’s need for surgery never became an emergency, but when the state once again allowed elective surgeries and CHKD began to reschedule missed procedures, Rhett was one of the first children on the list. His surgery was scheduled for June 5. Because of COVID-19 restrictions, only Cassie and Layne were allowed in Rhett’s room for his preparation and recovery. Outside Rhett’s window, however, stood his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, siblings, and even Rhett’s dog. The relatives hadn’t told Rhett’s parents they were coming, but the group spent four days on the hospital lawn from morning until night, dressed in purple T-shirts that said “Rhett Strong.”
“When I met him, I knew he was the doctor for Rhett. The two of them immediately had a bond.” – Cassie Harmon, Rhett’s mother, referring to Dr. Jesus Inciong, CHKD pediatric plastic surgeon and director of the Craniofacial Center at CHKD. “They were my village,” says Cassie. “I was so comforted knowing they were there. They stayed there keeping vigil through the weekend.” At a January follow-up visit, Rhett, now 1 year old, walked down the hallway of the Craniofacial Center. It was the first time Dr. Inciong had seen him walking. Rhett played peek-a-boo around the door of the exam room, and then sat smiling while Dr. Inciong examined his now shapely skull through the thick hair covering his surgical scars. Then Rhett wanted a turn examining Dr. Inciong’s head, which the doctor graciously consented to with a smile. Seeing the playful interaction between patient and doctor reaffirmed the Harmons’ decision. “His rapport with Rhett is impeccable,” says Cassie. “We came from four hours away. That’s how much Dr. Inciong means to us.”
Worth the Wait
Pandemic delay makes complex surgery all the sweeter for Rhett Harmon
PHOTOGRAPH BY Susan Lowe
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Our New NICU More room for the smallest patients
CHKD’s new NICU features a whimsical oak tree in its lobby. Far right: Anna and Nick Glandon bond with their son, Cameron, during his seven-month stay.
After waiting excitedly for the arrival of their first child, Anna and Nick Glandon watched their newborn son, Cameron, struggle to take his first few breaths. Born four weeks early, Cameron was immediately transferred to CHKD’s neonatal intensive care unit. Cameron had persistent pulmonary hypertension, a lifethreatening condition that occurs when the blood vessels in a newborn’s lungs don’t open enough, restricting the amount of oxygen to the brain and organs. The cause of persistent pulmonary hypertension is unknown, but it usually occurs in babies born full term, or at no less than 34 weeks. For four weeks, the Glandons didn’t even get to hear their baby cry, as his breathing was assisted by a ventilator. Fortunately, CHKD’s newly renovated NICU, which now has 50 private patient rooms and another 10 with two beds each, gave the Virginia Beach couple 12
Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
the privacy they needed to bond with Cameron as his lungs recovered. “I truly feel like CHKD saved his life,” says Cameron’s mom, Anna. CHKD has been taking care of the region’s sickest newborns since 1972 when it opened its first NICU. At that time, the tiny babies shared a 20-bed unit in a single large room with older children who also needed intensive care. Over the years, the NICU gained its own space, more beds, and more sophisticated technology in “pods” of six to nine babies, making it the region’s largest and most sophisticated intensive care unit for newborns. In September of 2020, CHKD completed its most recent NICU transformation, bringing patients the latest in features and advancements for neonatal care. High on the list of innovations is privacy for patient families like the Glandons. All 70 beds in CHKD’s new
“Someone has to watch out for the children, and in HamptonRoads, it’s CHKD.” – Dr. Jamil Khan, neonatologist and medical director of the NICU PHOTOGRAPHS BY Ken Mountain
NICU have ample space for a parent to spend the night, rest, and get to know their baby. The latest technology in monitors allows NICU staff to easily track how babies are doing and to provide the latest in treatments. “These tiny babies really need more space than you would think,” says neonatologist Dr. Jamil Khan, medical director of the unit. The trend in NICUs across the country is moving toward a more individualized environment so levels of light and noise can be adjusted to meet each baby’s needs, and parents can spend quality time with their infants. A tiny, premature baby, for instance, may need a quiet, dim environment, while older babies benefit from more stimulation, such as more light, and more talk and touch from caregivers. The unit admits about 500 babies a year, with an average length of stay of 41 days. The tiniest babies, those weighing less than 1,000 grams, stay an average of 87 days.
The renovated unit has a whimsical oak tree in the lobby, with an owl peeking out from a knothole. A family lounge area has a kitchen, room for classes on baby care, and a store where parents can buy books and clothing with “NICU bucks” they earn by attending parenting classes. Dr. Khan, who has treated babies at CHKD’s NICU since 1988, said the unit is a tribute not just to the advances in care of the region’s smallest babies, but also to the commitment of the community. “We certainly wouldn’t be able to have this beautiful state-of-the-art NICU without a lot of commitment from the hospital and the people in the community who have supported the hospital over the years,” says Khan. “Someone has to watch out for the children, and in Hampton Roads, it’s CHKD.”
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It’s been about a year since Darryl Addison and his wife Courtney heard the words: “Your son has cancer.” As devastating as it was, it didn’t prepare the Chesapeake couple for what they learned next. Their 3-yearold son, Cayden, had a specific type of leukemia that is difficult to treat. Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ALL) has a mutation in its genetic code that can cause white blood cells to become cancerous. “We prayed a lot,” says Darryl. “We wanted to be as optimistic as possible. We were just trying to hold each other up.” In the months following Cayden’s diagnosis, the Addisons have spent many nights in CHKD’s inpatient unit for hematology and oncology patients. It’s been a home away from home for the family as Cayden progressed successfully from one phase of his treatment to the next. In November, patients like Cayden were able to move to a newly created hematology/oncology unit on the 5th floor. The new unit features innovations such as 16 private rooms, each with its own bathroom and space for a parent to spend the night. Each room is also under positive pressure, providing an extra layer of protection for patients whose immune systems are compromised. “It’s been designed to help make families feel as comfortable as possible while their child goes through treatment,” says Dr. Eric Lowe, a CHKD pediatric hematologist/ oncologist and medical director of the program. Throughout the unit, families see uplifting images of majestic landscapes and hot air balloons that all fit into a theme of “soaring.” Without a doubt, Cayden’s favorite part of the new unit is its colorful playroom where children can take a break and have some fun. While he loved to play the video 14
Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
games available, Cayden also enjoyed painting activities and pretending to cook at the miniature kitchen set. When Cayden didn’t have the energy to head to the playroom, a child life specialist would visit him in his patient room, bringing him a special toy to make him smile. Sometimes it was construction blocks, a stuffed animal, or a toy car. It’s small gestures like this that illustrate the type of care that families need when they face a critical diagnosis. “Our healthcare providers have the most compassionate outlook when they’re
“It’s been designed to help make families feel as comfortable as possible while their child goes through treatment.” – Dr. Eric Lowe, CHKD pediatric hematologist/oncologist and medical director of the program taking care of these children and families,” says Colleen Grose, nurse manager of the hematology and oncology inpatient unit. “They truly go the extra mile. There is this genuine understanding of what these kids are going through.” For the Addisons, it means everything to see how well Cayden is feeling today. Back at home, Cayden, now 4, spends his days playing with his older brother, Christian, and learning online to prepare for kindergarten. His appetite, along with his hair, is starting to come back, too. Cayden still needs to take a chemotherapy medication daily, but so far, none of his routine tests show any sign of cancer. “We feel very blessed,” says Darryl. “We’re so grateful to CHKD. The doctors have been amazing. A lot of people don’t understand what goes on inside these walls. You don’t really know until someone you love is in there, or you are.”
PHOTOGRAPH BY Ken Mountain
Comfort and Smiles Innovative inpatient unit for kids with cancer and blood disorders
Four-year-old Cayden Addison dreams of a future as an astronaut as he undergoes treatment for leukemia in CHKD’s inpatient hematology and oncology unit.
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WRITTEN BY Elizabeth Earley • PHOTOGRAPH BY Ken Mountain
Donor Spotlight
Wendy and Benjamin Goldberg
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The Benjamin Goldberg Playroom
enjamin Goldberg of Virginia Beach was an exuberant boy who loved music and dancing. He was only 8 years old when he lost his life to a rare form of cancer. Benjamin’s story continues thanks to his mother, Wendy Goldberg, who created a foundation in his honor. Today, his spirit lives on in a playroom named for him in CHKD’s new hematology and oncology inpatient unit. A $100,000 donation from the Benjamin Goldberg Foundation helped create a place where patients can play and explore and feel like kids. They can also experience the restorative benefits of music therapy, yoga, and guided meditation, which were helpful to Benjamin during his battle with cancer. Benjamin was diagnosed in 2013 with neuroblastoma, a cancer that grows in nerve tissues in several different areas of the body. He was known for tapping into music to find solace during his journey, his ever-present headphones transporting him to a place of calm. He was a kid who made an impression on everyone. Hannah Gerloff, a nurse at the Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at CHKD, said his spot-on renditions of Michael Jackson dances and his boisterous, fun-loving nature were unforgettable: “He lived life to the fullest. He never let cancer get him down. Even on his last day in clinic, he was in his recliner waiting on his platelets, playing and fussing at me in typical Ben fashion.” Wendy, president of the accounting firm W.C. Goldberg & Co. in Virginia Beach, is a longtime volunteer for CHKD, and former 16
Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
chair of the hospital’s Development Advisory Board. She says the idea to help other kids and their families surfaced shortly before Benjamin died in 2018, when she noticed he had a wad of dollar bills in a new wallet someone had given him. She asked what he wanted to do with the money, and he said help families of other CHKD patients. They gave the money to CHKD’s long-time partner in family support, the Ronald McDonald House. That gesture inspired Wendy to create the foundation in her son’s memory. When she heard CHKD wanted to purchase infusion backpacks that would allow some cancer patients to receive drug therapy in the comfort of their homes, the foundation donated $20,000 toward the cost. Thanks to the support and dedication of the foundation’s board of directors, The Benjamin Goldberg Playroom was the next project. It’s a place of music and light and toys where child life specialists and music therapists can help children find peace through music, dance, and play. There’s also a “Peace Out Portal” on the foundation’s website where kids can watch videos of relaxing body movements and listen to music that has helped others through illness. Wendy doesn’t know what project the foundation will take on next, but she knows she will always evaluate opportunities by asking herself this question: Is this something that would have helped Ben? This guiding force, and a loving mother, keep Benjamin’s spirit alive while helping other children.
Join Team CHKD!
Development Boards (As of May, 2021)
Development Advisory Board Deb Vollmer, Chair Susie Archer
Richard Meredith Jr.
Todd Copeland
Hon. Eileen Olds
Edward Deets
Dana Ramirez, MD
Walker Dorroh
Stephen E. Sigmon
Janet D. Dungan
Andrea Vail
Pace Edwards
Susan Whitten
Stephen A. Leon
Rolf A. Williams
Brad Martin
Bennett Zier
Sean Meehan
Future Generations Board Cameron Reeves Poynter, Chair Ashley Bussey
Stephen Klimkiewicz
Dennis Cestra Jr.
Stephan Lipskis
Cynthia Chaing
Kelsey Mohring
Billy Chard
David Poteran
Carolyn Cooper Crutchfield
Amy Przymuzala
Jason Deans
Shikma Rubin
Katie Denton
Will Russell
Shawn Embrose
Leah Swatts
Matt Fanghella
Virginia Thornton
Nate Fine
Jill K. Wainger
Brooke Garrett
Lee Westnedge
Katherine Hines
J. Britton Williston
Ryan King
Katherine Wynne
Dedicate your next event, birthday, holiday, or special occasion to local kids at CHKD. Your support helps improve the lives of children in our community.
Get creative. With Team CHKD’s online fundraising program, the opportunities are endless. Donate for your birthday, create a fundraising page in honor of a loved one, or fundraise on a larger scale by organizing a charity race or sports tournament for CHKD. Set goals. Decide how much you want to raise. Set a deadline to achieve your goal and create a sense of urgency. Write a list of supporters. Reach out directly to friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, and acquaintances. Invite people to contribute a gift or participate in your event. If they donate, make sure to express your appreciation. Showing gratitude can encourage continued support. Make it personal. Whether you’re sharing on social media, by email, text, or phone, explain why you’re asking for support. Form a team. Several people working toward a goal will raise money faster than fundraising alone. Recruit family and friends to share on social media. Stay organized. Make sure you follow up and send reminders to your supporters. Let them know that their donations are tax-deductible, and be sure to keep track of all donations.
Go to CHKDdonate.org
Friends of the Child Advocacy Center Warren Aleck
Jim Schneider
Sarah Bishop
Ken B. Shewbridge
L. Ashley Brooks
Gay W. Shulman
Jean Compton
Lisa Smith
Scott Duncan
Lawrence Steingold
Sandra Harrison
Lydia C. Taylor
Lynn Hornsby
Sandra Warden
Maureen E. Olivieri
Dorothy Winn
Solon E. Paul
Judi Worley
Jenn Pfitzner
Nancy Yokois, MD
Betsy F. Phillips
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WRITTEN BY Alice Warchol • PHOTOGRAPH BY Ken Mountain
Donor Spotlight Dairy Queen employees raise their cones at the Great Bridge store in Chesapeake in honor of their CEO, Mitch Sandlin, being named DQ’s national Miracle Maker.
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Committed to CHKD Kids
o Mitch Sandlin, nothing is sweeter than knowing his Dairy Queen employees are just as committed as he is to helping the kids at CHKD. As the owner of Mid Atlantic Dairy Queen, a collection of 14 local restaurants, Mitch created a culture of giving that encourages his employees and customers to support CHKD. In addition to an employee giving program, staff members ask their customers – whom he calls “fans” – to round up at the register for CHKD all year long. Mitch’s enthusiastic support of CHKD earned him a national award from Dairy Queen as its Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals’ Miracle Maker for 2019. Each year, International Dairy Queen bestows this distinction on one U.S. Dairy Queen franchisee who represents the best of the brand when it comes to their support for local children. That honor was well-earned. Mitch’s 14 stores garnered an amazing 28 percent of the total funds raised by the 4,500 Dairy Queens in the U.S. and Canada that held round-up campaigns for children’s hospitals in 2019. Last year, Mid Atlantic Dairy Queen stores raised more than $300,000. “I give the credit to my management team, the employees, and our fans,” says Mitch. “And every penny goes back to CHKD.” Mid Atlantic Dairy Queen restaurants began raising money for CHKD more than 35 years ago. Mitch wanted to help support CHKD’s commitment to make sure no child who needs 18
Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
medical care is ever turned away. Over the years, colleagues and relatives have turned to CHKD when they needed expert pediatric care. “CHKD is a great resource for the community,” he says. “We are very fortunate to have it.” Mitch makes sure his management team tours the hospital every few years so they can see firsthand how their fundraising efforts help CHKD’s young patients. These visits help inspire them to be creative with their store fundraising campaigns. At Virginia Beach’s Landstown restaurant, the manager rallied employees one year by promising to shave his head if they raised $30,000. Once the haircut was finished, all that remained was a swirl of hair on his crown to represent DQ’s iconic ice cream cone curl. In addition to Miracle Treat Day, which runs nationally each year for children’s hospitals, Mitch’s restaurants dedicated a day last year where 100 percent of the sales from dipped cones went to CHKD. The event celebrated CHKD’s construction milestone of “topping off” its new mental health hospital, which is scheduled to open in 2022. As CHKD continues to meet the medical and mental health needs of children, Mitch expects fundraising for the hospital to grow. His franchise has pledged to raise $1.25 million over the next five years for the hospital’s mental health initiative. “There couldn’t be a better way for us to do our civic duty than by helping CHKD,” Mitch says. “Our business is the kids and we want them to be healthy.”
Members of The King’s Daughters celebrate their $3 million pledge in support of CHKD’s mental health initiative at the groundbreaking ceremony for the new 14-story pediatric mental health hospital and outpatient center (September 2019).
The King’s Daughters Mark 125 Years of Helping Children
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n 1896, when the city of Norfolk was opening its first public schools and operating its first electric trolley cars, The King’s Daughters, a local women’s service organization, hired a nurse to care for the sick in Norfolk’s poorest neighborhoods. In her first year, she made 1,771 house calls on foot. In her second year, The King’s Daughters bought her a bicycle so she could cover more ground. Families who could not pay for her services received them for free, establishing the foundation of charitable care that would come to define The King’s Daughters and shape the future of healthcare for children in our region and beyond. In those early days, The King’s Daughters made sure that children with contagious illnesses like typhoid, malaria, dysentery, and tuberculosis got the care they needed. Later, they encouraged and provided vaccinations to prevent these same illnesses. After operating a series of ever-larger clinics, they set in motion plans to build a full-service children’s hospital. The group raised nearly $1 million and broke ground on Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters in 1959. The building was dedicated on April 23, 1961, and on May 5, staff admitted the first children to the new, 88-bed hospital. Over the next year, 90 employees helped care for over 3,395 children, 48 percent of which were from families who could not pay. Since that time, CHKD has undergone major renovations and
expansions and is now the heart of a comprehensive health system dedicated exclusively to children. The King’s Daughters have been instrumental drivers of that growth, raising needed funds, advocating for children’s health concerns, and volunteering in countless ways to bring comfort and care to our patients. As The King’s Daughters celebrate their 125th year, the organization is more vibrant than ever with a staff that supports more than 1,100 volunteer Circle members organized into 44 adult Circles and eight junior Circles. The Circles host fundraisers throughout the year and also participate in major King’s Daughters projects such as RunWalk for the Kids, Breakfast with Santa, and Moonlight & Mistletoe. Circle volunteers also make hand-sewn stuffed bears for kids at CHKD going into surgery, along with many other handmade items for patient families. “It is impossible to overstate the importance of The King’s Daughters to our community,” says Jim Dahling, president and CEO of CHKD. “Their founding premise, that every child deserves equal access to high-quality pediatric care, has benefitted generations of children and remains our guiding principle today. We are incredibly grateful for their strong historic partnership and will continue to rely on their wisdom, leadership, and advocacy efforts in the future.” SUMMER 2021
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Calendar | Events and Classes
Calendar Upcoming events for Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
Fundraising Events Visit CHKD.org/Giving or call (757) 668-7070. Walmart and Sam’s Club Campaign June 28 – July 25 Support the kids at CHKD while shopping at your neighborhood Walmart or Sam’s Club stores. You can help by donating at the register or participating in a store fundraising activity.
Ace Hardware Bucket Days August 6 - 8 During Ace Hardware’s annual Bucket Days promotion, customers who make a $5 donation to CHKD will receive a limited-edition, five-gallon bucket and 20% off everything that fits inside (some restrictions apply).
Anthem LemonAid July 1 – 31 This year’s event, presented by The King’s Daughters, will take place for the entire month of July. Anyone can join the fun and make a difference in the lives of local kids with cancer. For more information, and to register, visit GiveButter.Com/LemonAid.
Rite Aid Campaign August 1 - 28 Rite Aid customers who donate $1 or more at the register in-store or online during the month of August will help fund critical programs and services at CHKD.
Discrimination is against the law. Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters complies with applicable civil rights laws and does not discriminate, exclude or treat people differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sexual preference, gender identification or expression, religion (creed) or sex. CHKD provides aids and services, such as qualified interpreters and information in alternative formats, to help people with disabilities and/or limited proficiency in English. These aids are provided free of charge and in a timely manner. If you need these services, please contact cultural/language services at (757) 668-8246.If you believe that CHKD has failed to provide these services or has discriminated in another way on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex, you can file a grievance with: Tina Allen, Corporate Compliance Officer, 601 Children’s Lane, Norfolk, VA 23507, Phone: (757) 668-7776, Fax: (757) 668-5663, Email: Tina.Allen@chkd.org. You can file a grievance in person or by mail, fax, or email. If you need help filing a grievance, Tina Allen is available to help you. You can also file a civil rights complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights, electronically through the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Portal, available at https://ocrportal.hhs.gov/ocr/portal/lobby.jsf or by mail or phone at: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 200 Independence Avenue, SW, Room 509F, HHH Building, Washington, D.C. 20201, Phone: 1-800-368-1019 | 800 537-7697 (TDD). Complaint forms are available at www.hhs.gov/ocr/office/file/index.html. 1 (757) 668-6930 PAUNAWA: Kung nagsasalita ka ng Tagalog, maaari kang gumamit ng mga serbisyo ng tulong sa wika nang walang bayad. Tumawag sa 1 (757) 668-6930 1 (757) 668-6930 1 (757) 668-6930
1 (757) 668-6930 1 (757) 668-6930 1 (757) 668-6930 ATTENTION : Si vous parlez français, des services d’aide linguistique vous sont proposés gratuitement. Appelez le 1 (757) 668-6930 ACHTUNG: Wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen, stehen Ihnen kostenlos sprachliche Hilfsdienstleistungen zur Verfügung. Rufnummer: 1 (757) 668-6930 1 (757) 668-6930 1 (757) 668-6930 ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1 (757) 668-6930 1 (757) 668-6930 1 (757) 668-6930 1 (757) 668-6930 1 (757) 668-6930
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Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
Your Baby
Newborn care and development presented by CHKD’s pediatric providers. Visit CHKD.org/Classes for dates, times, and to register. Please note: Some in-person programs may be on hold due to social distancing guidelines. Contact the provider directly for the latest information. Welcome, Baby! Learn about basic newborn care including topics such as immunizations, breastfeeding, bathing, sleep safety, and more. There will also be an opportunity to meet the providers, tour the office, and ask questions. General Booth Pediatrics Pediatric Specialists Suffolk Pediatrics Meet and Greet Open House New and expectant parents – or families new to the area – are invited to tour the office and ask questions. Chesapeake Pediatrics Newport News Pediatrics Pediatric Associates of Williamsburg Breastfeeding Classes Get all your breastfeeding questions answered. Learn how to get off to a good start during the first month after your baby is born. Coastal Pediatrics
FEATURED WORKSHOP Mindful MOM: Get Calm and Connected The Mindful Mom group takes place online and provides an opportunity to learn and practice mindfulness skills that reduce stress and strengthen mother/child relationships. Facilitated by Michele Tryon, CCLS, CHKD parent educator. Tuesdays: September 14 and 28; October 12 and 26; from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Register at CHKD.org/Classes
Community Parenting Education
Your Child
CHKD’s parenting experts offer webinars and workshops on a wide range of topics to help you understand and connect with your child. Visit CHKD.org/Classes to register.
WEBINARS FOR PARENTS and PROFESSIONALS
Children and Stress Understand what stress is and how it impacts children. Consider strategies for helping your child cope with common stressful situations and experiences. Learn effective ways to lessen tension, increase cooperation, and support development. Wednesday, August 11, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Positive Discipline (ages 5 – 12) Get to the core of misbehavior and help your child succeed. Positive discipline offers techniques that work to establish strong relationships and thinking, responsible children. Monday, September 13, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Understanding Anger in Children (ages 6 – 12) Understand the causes of anger, how to anticipate and defuse angry outbursts, and how to help your child manage their own emotions. Friday, October 1, Noon – 1 p.m.
Children and Trauma Traumatic and life-altering events affect many aspects of a child’s development. Learn about symptoms of trauma in children, how to respond appropriately to help a child successfully overcome challenges, and how to help them develop resilience. Wednesday, September 22, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION Special Presentation: The Basics™ (for parents and providers of infants and toddlers) Join a CHKD speech pathologist, occupational therapist, and parent educator to learn about The Basics. The Basics are five fun, simple, and powerful ways that you can give your baby a great start in life. Did you know 80% of brain growth happens in the first three years of life? Learn and practice the five basic ways to give your child what they need to thrive: maximize love, manage stress; talk, sing, and point; count, group, and compare; explore through movement and play; and read and discuss stories. For more information, visit TheBasicsHR.org. Thursday, August 5, Noon – 1:30 p.m.
FREE VIRTUAL SCREENING Upstanders: A documentary about resilience and the power of connection to end bullying. Join us for a free virtual screening of Upstanders, an IndieFlix original film that explores all sides of cyberbullying, from bully and victim to bystanders and family members. Social media’s power means that bullying is now a 24/7 phenomenon, with COVID affecting the incidence of cyberbullying by 70%. The Upstanders’ film weaves personal stories of teenagers and their families, as well as teachers and neuroscientists, to demonstrate the importance of empathy and resilience, which can transform attitudes, change human behavior, and promote connection to one another. The film highlights that everyone has a role to eradicate cyberbullying, and gives bystanders the confidence and tools to become ‘Upstanders.’ Thursday, September 30, 6:30 – 8 p.m.
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NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID CHKD
601 Children’s Lane • Norfolk, VA 23507
Save these dates to support
Walmart and Sam’s Club Campaign June 28 – July 25 Support the kids at CHKD while shopping at your neighborhood Walmart or Sam’s Club stores. You can help by donating at the register or participating in a store fundraising activity.
July 1 – July 31 This year’s Anthem LemonAid, presented by The King’s Daughters, will take place for the entire month of July. Anyone can join the fun, either virtually or in person, and make a difference in the lives of local kids with cancer. For more information, and to register, visit GiveButter.com/LemonAid.
