A Diagnosis Isn't Everything: A Place Where Kids Can Be Kids

“It’s a place where we don’t have to ask a child what their diagnosis is or how long they’re going to be here. All we need is their name and room number, and then we get to invite them in and let them enjoy just being a kid.” These are the words of Krista Jenkins, Patient Activity Specialist at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s The Zone activity area. One of our heartbeats here at helloHOPE is that a diagnosis doesn’t have to define your child or your family. We loved having the opportunity to chat with Krista Jenkins about how she uses this same philosophy in her work at The Zone. Enjoy a glimpse into our conversation.

Family ResourcesMary Beth ThomasMay 27, 2021Expert Interviews

Helping Our Children Honor and Value Others with Disabilities [Book Recommendation]

As I reflect on the benefit of having a child with a diagnosis, I can’t help but notice how it is positively affecting my other children. My typical children have learned the unique risks and challenges that Ransom faces, and they are learning to help protect him and teach others about him. I see tiny seeds of compassion and empathy growing in their little hearts that I doubt would be growing without our medical challenges. The book God Made Me Unique produced by Joni and Friends is an amazing resource to help children honor and value every person they encounter.

Family Resources, Supporting Loved OnesMary Brantley MeadeFebruary 25, 2021Family LifeComment

What Do I Need to Know About My Child's Liver Transplant?

Dr. Rene Romero, Chief of Solid Organ Transplant Services at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, was kind to carve out time in his schedule for a conversation about how to help parents who are receiving the news that their child needs a liver transplant. Dr. Romero carries a deep passion for his work, and his extensive background has given him invaluable wisdom. Enjoy a glimpse into our conversation:

Family ResourcesMary Beth ThomasApril 28, 2020Expert InterviewsComment

We’re in this Together: Facing Medical Adversity with a Strong Marriage

Two years ago we sat down with Caroline and John Carroll to speak to them about their journey with their daughter Claire. Claire was born with a heart defect and Down Syndrome, or Trisomy 21. At just two years old, when Caroline was only nine days postpartum with their third child, Claire was diagnosed with leukemia.

Stories, Family ResourcesCatie Cummings-MorrisSeptember 18, 2018Family Life, Genetics, Oncology, HemotologyComment

Have a Child with Allergies? Use this Emergency Allergy and Anaphylaxis Action Plan Template [Free Download]

Family ResourcesAndrew ThomasJuly 26, 2018Tips & Tricks Comments