Grateful Patients
Tristen’s Journey: A Story of Strength, Care and Hope
Born with a rare heart condition, Tristen has spent much of his young life in and out of hospitals, facing challenges that would test even the strongest among us. But with the expert medical team at Valley Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center by his side and the unwavering love and support of his family, Tristen has continued to fight – and inspire everyone around him.
“We never felt alone in this journey,” said Tristen’s mom, Tiffanie. “The doctors and nurses at Valley Children’s not only cared for Tristen, they cared about him. They gave us hope when we needed it most.”
Tristen’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience, dedication and compassionate care that define our mission. Watch the video to see how Valley Children’s has been a source of strength, healing and hope for Tristen – and for so many others.
A Special Day of Gratitude at the ECMO Graduate Picnic
This year’s ECMO Graduate Picnic was a joyful celebration of resilience and recovery. Families and graduates came together for a day of fun and shared gratitude, marking a milestone in their journey.
ECMO – which stands for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation – provides critical heart and lung support for young patients facing life-threatening challenges. Thanks to the exceptional care of our ECMO team, these graduates have not only survived but are now thriving.
We are proud to provide the Central Valley’s only ECMO program for infants and children, and we applaud our ECMO team and their ongoing dedication to delivering exceptional care to patients and their families.
Advocating for Children’s Health and Our Arthritis Warriors
In the spring, Valley Children’s joined local families to honor the resilience of young arthritis warriors at the inaugural Walk to Cure Arthritis. Patients, families and supporters came together to raise more than $10,000 for the Arthritis Foundation.
“It was an amazing experience to walk along with our brave arthritis warriors,” said Valley Children’s Pediatric Rheumatologist Dr. Deepika Singh. “We had such phenomenal support for this first-time event and hope to make this an annual tradition.”
Just days after the event, Dr. Singh took the fight for arthritis awareness and support to Washington, D.C., to attend the Advocacy Leadership Conference. As a member of an insurance sub-committee of the American College of Rheumatology, Dr. Singh met with members of Congress, including staff from U.S. Senators Laphonza Butler and Alex Padilla’s offices, to advocate for legislation that protects patient access to care. Click here to read more on Dr. Singh’s advocacy work.
“It was a perfect way to raise awareness and advocate for patients with these often-invisible illnesses,” she said.
Kicking Off Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with a Grand Slam Experience
Valley Children’s Cancer & Blood Disorders Center patients had an unforgettable experience at Oracle Park, where they participated in the San Francisco Giants’ Pediatric Cancer Awareness Night. Along with a thrilling day at the ballpark, our patients left with branded hats, sweatbands and an autographed Buster Posey toy – creating plenty of cherished memories.
Throughout the day, our group had opportunities to feel celebrated and included in the festivities. One patient, Gabriel, had the special honor of serving as the Kid Captain of the game, helping hand the umpires the lineups. He even took home a game ball!
“This event was the absolute best way to kick off Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with our Valley Children’s patients,” said Valley Children’s Child Life Specialist Jessica Vega. “It’s an opportunity of a lifetime for many of our patients and their families.”
A Magical Movie Night: Inside Out 2 Premiere Brings Joy to Young Patients
In April, nearly 40 young patients and their families at Valley Children’s Hospital were treated to an unforgettable evening. Disney, Starlight Children’s Foundation and Valley Children’s Child Life team transformed conference rooms into a lively movie theater for an exclusive screening of Inside Out 2, complete with a red carpet, a selfie station and the magic of Disney.
This exclusive event is part of Valley Children’s partnership with Disney and Starlight Children’s Foundation, who together hold Disney-themed events designed to bring comfort and happiness to hospitalized children.
The event allowed kids to experience the excitement of Disney and Pixar’s highly anticipated film. In addition to the special movie viewing, attendees received Inside Out 2 themed stickers, activity books, water bottles and blankets.
“When children face hospitalization, it’s one of the most stressful moments for a parent,” said Adam Garone, CEO of Starlight Children’s Foundation. “We exist to transform moments in the hospital journey by delivering happiness and joy.”
