Page 6 - Ochsner Magazine - Fall-Winter 2014

Pediatric Care
Every superhero has a vulnerability, like Kryptonite for Super- man or the color yellow for the Green Lantern. Yet character and courage allow him or her to overcome that weakness (and
triumph over evil and injustice).
You might say that’s also true for 5-year-old Cecilia Shaffette, one
of Ochsner’s young superheroes. Born with a severe liver malfunc- tion, Cecilia has been through one major surgery, seven outpatient procedures and countless visits to approximately 10 physicians and surgeons. Yet, like many young patients, Cecilia has demonstrated heroic strength and spirit in fighting both illness and discouragement. What’s her secret weapon? “I’m brave,” she says.
Each year, nearly 100,000 young superheroes make their way through Ochsner Hospital for Children and Ochsner Health Centers for Children. For some, it’s an easy visit, such as a checkup with their pediatrician or an immunization update. Other children face chal- lenges as daunting as cancer, a cleft palate, or a damaged heart or liver in need of transplant. The ambience of the children’s inpatient
Cecilia Shaffette charmed her healthcare team with her joy and resilience.
Caring for
the Littlest
Superheroes
Courageous and spirited young patients like Cecilia Shaffette are a profound source of inspiration to their healthcare providers.
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www.ochsner.org Daymon Gardner