As he ambles down a long hospital hallway, smiling with every step and practically daring you to do the same, it can be pretty easy to forget that this wasn't supposed to happen. Mateo Arcos was never supposed to walk.

Many families are grateful for the opportunity to gather again this Thanksgiving as COVID-19 vaccines offer some protection from the virus. But holiday gatherings are not exactly back to the celebrations of the past. Matt Witham, PhD, manager of Child and Family Services at Gillette Children's, has some advice to modify traditions and keep our celebrations happy.

Infectious diseases have caused problems for millions of years. That’s why it’s important to wash our hands and clean surfaces we touch—especially in a health care setting. At Gillette, keeping our clinical spaces clean and sanitized is an essential part of the care that we provide.

Caty Lingbeck, APRN, CPNP, recently joined Gillette Children's as a urology provider. Lingbeck is excited to work with Gillette families and has expertise in treating neurogenic bladder, neurogenic bowel, spina bifida and cerebral palsy.

Gillette Children's is committed to providing access and excellence in health care to children throughout Minnesota. National Rural Health Day is November 18th and an opportunity to celebrate the community-minded spirit of rural American and to highlight health care providers who keep people living in these areas healthy. Although we’re headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, Gillette has clinics throughout the state in locations such as Alexandria, Baxter, Bemidji, Duluth, Mankato, St. Cloud and Willmar.

Proven to be a thorough method of diagnosing and treating joint problems, arthroscopy provides young patients with the least invasive, most effective treatment possible. As experts in treating children who have complex conditions, Gillette Children’s is here to help navigate the journey.

"Anyone who has spent as much time in doctor’s offices or waiting rooms as we have knows how frustrating it can be to start from square one when discussing your child’s medical condition. When you’re at Gillette, you never need to do that. I can’t even begin to tell you how much that means.” -Trisha Irvin

Many parents of 5 to 11 year old children are anxious to get their child a COVID-19 vaccination. Children might be feeling anxious themselves for another reason. Gillette Children's Associate Medical Director of Pediatrics shares tips so children can feel brave and calm during a vaccination. Preparation, distraction and even a little screen time can help make the process go smoothly.

A diagnosis of epilepsy can be a confusing time for a family and child. November is Epilepsy Awareness Month and Gillette Children's wants to remind families we're a source for expert diagnosis, treatment and support of people who have epilepsy.

It’s the moment many parents have been anxiously waiting for—COVID-19 vaccines are being rolled out for children ages 5-to-11. Since the start of the pandemic in early 2020, Gillette Children's has been a strong advocate to ensure COVID vaccine access for for children with complex medical needs and their caregivers. A Gillette family shares their relief and gratitude now that vaccines are available for children.