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Home / Kids Health Matters / Topic:
Movement
August 3, 2022

What Are The Signs of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Children?

What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)? It refers to a group of disorders that affect the body’s connective tissue. This includes the skin, ligaments, tendons and blood vessel walls. The point of these connective tissues is to provide strength and elasticity to other parts of the body. Children with EDS usually have overly flexible joints. They also can have fragile, stretchy skin.
Brain
July 28, 2022

Trust Your Instincts: A Craniosynostosis Journey

The Quinn family shares their experience about their newborn daughter receiving a diagnosis of craniosynostosis. They appreciate the Gillette team approach to care which allows for collaboration between the neurosurgeon and the plastic surgeon to formulate a clear, patient-specific plan. Two surgeons working side-by-side in the operating room decreases operating time and reduces the length of exposure a child has to general anesthesia.
Pediatrics
July 27, 2022

How We Monitor and Treat Amniotic Band Syndrome

Amniotic Band Syndrome (ABS) occurs when a fetus becomes entangled in fibrous, a string-like strand called amniotic bands.While in the womb as the fetus continues to grow, some of their bands will not grow with them. This causes their blood flow to get blocked and disrupts continued growth and development.
Pediatrics
July 20, 2022

How our Audiologists Specialize in Working with Children with Complex Conditions and Developmental Delays

At Gillette Children’s, our team of audiologists often work with children who may be nonverbal, have developmental delays or other complex conditions. We are the first children’s health care organization in the Twin Cities to offer Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) testing that doesn’t require a child to be asleep or sedated.
Patient Stories
July 19, 2022

Two Mothers Share Cleft Lip Stories

Two mothers share their journey of receiving cleft lip and/or palate care for their babies at Gillette Children's. July is National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness Month. Gillette has one of the largest craniofacial programs in the U.S. Both mothers appreciate the expertise care and support at Gillette.
Bones
July 13, 2022

How Physical Therapy Helps Teens With Scheuermann’s Kyphosis

Scheuermann’s disease, also known as Scheuermann’s kyphosis, is a condition where a child’s spine has too much of a curve. This typically happens during periods of accelerated growth or puberty.
Bones
July 12, 2022

Join Gillette Children’s in Celebrating Disability Pride Month

At Gillette Children’s, it’s our mission to help every child reach their potential and achieve the independence and agency to create their own story.That’s why we celebrate Disability Pride Month, and we hope that you'll join us.
Bones
July 6, 2022

What Are Tethered Spinal Cord Symptoms in Children?

A tethered spinal cord occurs when the spinal cord is pulled down and is stuck or attached to the base of the spine’s surrounding tissue. This prevents the spinal cord from moving freely in the spinal canal as it normally would. If the spinal cord is tethered, it will stretch like a rubber band in response to the restriction. The pressure from this may cause pain and permanent damage to the spinal tissue and nerves if left untreated.
Safety and Wellness
June 30, 2022

Celebrate Smart Summer Safety

The Fourth of July and other summer celebrations are a time for enjoyment, making memories and being aware of summer safety tips. Now that the CDC has approved COVID-19 vaccines for children who are age six months and older, millions of young children are now eligible to be vaccinated. That brings a bit more freedom for celebrating compared to the safety precautions from last summer. The physicians at Gillette Children's and Regions Hospital remind you that preparation is the key to keeping safe.
Bones
June 29, 2022

How to Style Your Outfits with A Scoliosis Brace

June is scoliosis month. At Gillette Children’s, we are taking a deeper dive into understanding the importance of proper treatment.
Brain
June 22, 2022

Proper Testing After A Concussion Is Crucial

Concussions are one of the most common, unexpected injuries in both adults and children. While we usually think of athletes who are running around and occasionally into each other, the truth is it can happen to anyone.
Rehabilitation
June 21, 2022

Vang Helps Patients Achieve Independence

New Gillette Children’s adult nurse practitioner, Pang Vang, says she’s driven to help all patients achieve a better quality of life. She's part of Gillette's physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) team and her philosophy of care centers on building relationships.
Community
June 17, 2022

Three Gillette Children’s Team Members Honored as “Health Care Heroes”

On Thursday, June 16, three Gillette Children’s employees were honored as Health Care Heroes. The Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal hosted the event that put a spotlight on Twin Cities individuals who put innovation, care, dedication and compassion to work to improve the human condition. 
Community
June 14, 2022

Advocacy: Part of Gillette Children’s Care Model

Gillette Children’s has an advocacy team whose mission is to make sure children, especially children with disabilities, are not overlooked as state and national lawmakers create the legislation that shapes our lives.  
Community
June 9, 2022

It’s Really the People: The Story Behind Gillette Children’s Collaboration with Cloud Cult

Gillette Children's embarked on a project to show the world, especially prospective employees, what makes the hospital special. The project turned into a beautiful community collaboration that celebrates the magic of Gillette.
Brain
June 8, 2022

Why Your Child Needs An Evaluation By Specialists After Their First Seizure

After a child has a seizure for the first time, it can be scary and overwhelming. Talking to medical professionals and getting answers is the best way to put worries at ease. At Gillette Children’s, we work one-on-one with patients and their families in order to determine underlying causes.
Innovation and Research
June 7, 2022

Why Gillette Children’s Research is so Critical

Gillette Children’s conducts clinical research every day to answer some of the most important questions for patients and families. We focus on improving treatments and making life better for children with medical conditions or disabilities.
Cerebral Palsy
June 6, 2022

What Defines a Superhero?

Samantha Lademann, an adult patient at Gillette, shares an original essay to honor her two superheroes. Learn who they are and how they've helped Samantha, in her words, "emerge from the flames" after health issues related to cerebral palsy.
Bones
June 1, 2022

How Our Baby Helmets Are Custom Made for Your Infant’s Flat Head Syndrome

Deformational plagiocephaly, better known as "flat head", is a condition where a baby’s head has an uneven or irregular shape. Because external forces cause a flat head, it can occur while a baby is growing before and after birth. If the condition goes untreated, it can get worse. Gillette knows and understands just how important it is to help combat this condition and aims to treat it as soon as possible. This is why we became the first to create an orthosis approved by the FDA, known as the CranioCap or “baby helmet”.
Safety and Wellness
May 26, 2022

Keep Your Cool With Summer Travel Tips

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of the summer travel season. Parents traveling with family members who have a disability are often dealing with extra issues and concerns. Preparation and knowledge are the keys to decreasing stress and having fun in the sun.
Bones
May 18, 2022

How Occupational Therapy Helps Children Recovering From Spinal Cord Injuries

Whether your child is recovering from a spinal cord injury or they have just had spinal surgery, rehabilitation is key. What many families may not realize is that there are many forms of spinal cord rehabilitation. One that is often forgotten is occupational therapy.
Bones
May 16, 2022

We are Gillette Children’s: A New Look and Name

Gillette Children's is marking its 125th anniversary in 2022. During this milestone year, we engaged stakeholders from across the Gillette community to shape our new mission statement and refresh our brand. We simplified our name a bit--we are now officially Gillette Children's. Read more to discover what this new name, look, and focus means.
Brain
May 11, 2022

Understanding Corpus Callosotomy Surgery: The Benefits And Risks

For children with epilepsy, corpus callosotomy surgery is a way to reduce or eliminate seizures. This type of brain surgery for epilepsy can be incredibly beneficial; however, like all surgeries, there are some risks involved.
Patient Stories
May 10, 2022

Sled Hockey Provides Access for Children Who Have Disabilities

You know, there might be nothing more Minnesotan than lacing up a pair of skates and heading out to the rink. “You bet, you’d better believe it,” says Tony Lang of Loretto, Minnesota. “I grew up playing hockey my whole life. It’s a family tradition. In fact, when we had kids I built a rink in our backyard.”
Community
May 5, 2022

Happy National Nurses Week!

Nurses are the backbone of care at Gillette Children’s. For 125 years this hospital has served as a pioneer in caring for children with complex brain, bone and movement conditions. Technology and innovation have allowed Gillette Children’s physicians and care teams to unlock so many medical mysteries, but one thing has remained the same – the unique dedication and impact of nurses at Gillette. 
Bones
May 4, 2022

What Are Magnetically Driven Growing Rods?

Magnetic-controlled growth rods (MAGEC) eliminate repetitive surgical procedures in young patients with early-onset scoliosis.
Bones
April 28, 2022

Occupational Therapists Build Independence

When you come to Gillette Children’s you’ll collaborate with one of the nation’s top providers of pediatric inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation therapies. Gillette Children’s has occupational therapists throughout the Twin Cities metro area in our St. Paul, Phalen, Burnsville and Maple Grove clinic locations. Gillette also provides access, if appropriate, to children throughout the region through virtual appointments.
Bones
April 27, 2022

Answering Common Questions About Scoliosis Bracing for Kids and Teens

From fashion advice to practical tips for skin irritation, we answer the common questions kids and teens have about wearing scoliosis bracing.
Brain
April 25, 2022

Neurologist Inspired by a Photo

Gillette Children's pediatric neurologist, Charbel El Kosseifi, MD, says a photo of a young girl inspired him and changed his life. "I even dreamed of that photo," El Kosseifi shares. This new member of the neurology team is helping children care for their muscles, nerves and bones.
Rare Conditions
April 20, 2022

How We Treat Circadian Rhythm Disorders in Children

From light therapy and behavioral therapy to medication, our accredited sleep clinic uses a variety of methods to treat circadian rhythm disorders in children.
Patient Stories
April 14, 2022

A Girl, a Bike and a Dream: RE’s Story

Born missing her arms, Ruth Evelyn (RE) can do pretty much anything using her feet. But she's always dreamed of riding a bike. So her family turned to Gillette to help make her dream a reality.
Injuries
April 13, 2022

When To Get A Second Opinion on Your Child’s Diagnosis or Care

Wondering how to get a second opinion on your child’s recent diagnosis? Here’s how to make a second opinion request, where you can get access to a specialist's opinion quickly.
Injuries
April 5, 2022

The ArmeoSpring Makes Intense Therapy Seem Like Play

April is Occupational Therapy (OT) month and Gillette is highlighting the amazing work our OT team does every day to help our patients increase their independence with daily activities. Gillette is one of the only pediatric health care centers to have an ArmeoSpring machine. Our occupational therapists use this robotic exoskeleton to assist patients who are building strength as the result of trauma, cerebral palsy, neuromuscular conditions or stroke.
Cerebral Palsy
March 31, 2022

Super Sam and Cerebral Palsy

At Target Field, every Sunday is Kid’s Day and on a beautiful summer day in August of 2019, Samuel Anastos scored the first honorary run of a Minnesota Twins game. It was a joyous moment made all the more meaningful because there was a time in Sam’s life when his parents questioned whether he would learn to walk or talk, much less run.
Pediatrics
March 30, 2022

What Causes Sleep Apnea In Children?

Sleep apnea can affect anyone, at any age. There are a number of factors that can cause sleep apnea. Some of them can be treated, while others have to be managed.
Brain
March 23, 2022

How To Explain A Seizure To A Child

Experiencing a seizure for the first time can be scary, especially as a child. As a parent, explaining what is happening and what will happen is the best way to put worries at ease.
Cerebral Palsy
March 22, 2022

Sophia Soars: A 700-Mile Journey to Treat a Daughter’s Cerebral Palsy

"Every step Sophia takes is a testament to the countless dedicated individuals who made it possible." Sophia and her family traveled from Arkansas to Minnesota for several major surgeries to treat her cerebral palsy.
Cerebral Palsy
What are the symptoms of CP?
March 17, 2022

Video: Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy

What are common symptoms that might indicate cerebral palsy in young children? Check out this video on what to watch for—and learn why it’s important parents follow-up with their child’s primary provider if they suspect developmental delays.
Bones
March 16, 2022

Can Clubfoot Be Corrected?

Clubfoot is one of the most popular conditions we treat. The good news is that with the right care, clubfoot can be corrected completely.
Patient Stories
March 15, 2022

What Drives Gillette Child Life Specialists

Bubbles, books, and stuffed animals are tools of the trade for child life specialists at Gillette Children's. March is Child Life Month and a time to highlight the joy and hard work these health professionals bring to hospitalized children and their families. When you come to Gillette you’ll collaborate with child life specialists who have extensive knowledge of child development and are experts at understanding how a medical environment can affect children.
Bones
March 9, 2022

Overuse Injuries In Children: What You Need To Know

A 2013 study by the American Journal of Sports Medicine determined that kids who play one sport for 8 or more months a year are almost three times more likely to experience an overuse injury. At Gillette Children’s, our providers, nurses and staff are here to help treat overuse injuries in children of all ages and backgrounds. 
Cerebral Palsy
March 8, 2022

Here’s Why Gillette is the Best at Providing Cerebral Palsy Care

For 125 years the doctors, nurses and employees at Gillette have worked every day to provide the very best care for all children. This dedication has led to treatments and outcomes that have influenced cerebral palsy care worldwide. 
Community
March 3, 2022

Paralympics and Pure Grit

The Paralympic Games are underway in Beijing, China. More than 650 athletes are competing with five Para athletes from Minnesota. These Games are an opportunity to highlight people successfully living with a disability. "Pure Grit," a book from Gillette Children's Healthcare Press, echoes this theme and changes the preconceived notions about what is possible for people who have a disability.
Bones
March 2, 2022

How To Prepare A Child For An MRI Scan

An MRI uses magnets, invisible radio waves and computers to take detailed pictures of the inside of the body. In doing so, a provider can see bones, tendons, blood vessels, organs and soft tissues.
Cerebral Palsy
Gillette is one of the world's top centers for cerebral palsy
March 1, 2022

Infographic: Why Gillette is One of the World’s Top Centers for Cerebral Palsy

Did you know that Gillette is one of the world's top centers for caring for children who have cerebral palsy? Find out why.
Rare Conditions
February 28, 2022

Researching Rare Diseases at Gillette Children’s

Gillette Children's is known worldwide for its research and expertise in caring for children diagnosed with rare diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), Legg-Calve Perthes disease, Prader-Willi syndrome, Rett syndrome, and other conditions.
Innovation and Research
February 24, 2022

Rare Disease Awareness and Care

Gillette Children's is known worldwide for its expertise in caring for children diagnosed with rare diseases. Several Gillette providers are participating in an event at the University of Minnesota to talk about the successes and challenges in caring for rare disease disorders. Linda Krach, MD, is a Gillette rehabilitation medicine physician and a keynote speaker at the U of M event. Krach recently won a prestigious award for her work and is part of a team helping patients who have spina bifida and other rare diseases.
Community
February 23, 2022

How Our Music Therapy Program Helps Children Cope With Hospital Stays

Music therapy helps manage pain, helps a child adjust to a hospital environment, provides positive emotional experiences, and promotes comfort and relaxation.
Bones
Gillette patient Michael with his mom
February 22, 2022

What is a Rare Disease? A Closer Look

Rare Disease Day is Feb. 28, 2022. The main objective of the day is to raise awareness about how rare diseases have an impact on people’s lives and our communities. Gillette Children's is known worldwide for its expertise in caring for children diagnosed with rare diseases such as Rett syndrome, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), Legg-Calve Perthes disease, Prader-Willi syndrome and other conditions.
Community
February 17, 2022

Why Adaptive Skiing Matters

The 12th Annual Gillette Children's Adaptive Ski Day was an opportunity for children who have disabilities to discover the thrill of downhill skiing. Marcie Ward, MD, is a Gillette pediatric rehabilitation medicine physician and says these adaptive sports events bring joy and can transform children and families.
Cerebral Palsy
February 16, 2022

How to Talk to Family and Friends About Your Child’s Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis

Learn how to have conversations with family and friends about your child's recent cerebral palsy diagnosis and how they can help.
Cerebral Palsy
February 14, 2022

Welcome to the Everybody Club

“The Everybody Club” is a book about love. It easily could have been a book about grief, heart break and the struggles in life. But that’s not what author Linda Hayen and her daughter Carissa wanted to put into the world. Linda Hayen, is the mother of a Gillette patient and says it's joyful, colorful story about inclusion that's based on the relationship between her daughter and son.
Brain
February 11, 2022

A Family Helps Gillette Patients Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Lucia Lazarus was only 5 years old when she had to have surgery at Gillette. She was devastated to learn she would miss Valentine's Day celebrations at school. But child life specialists at Gillette made sure she felt the love while in their care. Because of the dedication of the Gillette staff, Lucia's family worked to find ways to pay it forward. Now they make Valentine's Day bags for Gillette patients and help amplify the work of our researchers studying the use of Virtual Reality to help Gillette patients manage pain and anxiety.
Innovation and Research
February 9, 2022

What Are Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices?

Augmentative and Alternative Communication devices are part of a child's communication system, ranging from choice boards to iPad apps.
Pediatrics
February 8, 2022

Why Dental Care is a Concern

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. Oral disease is the top unmet health issue for children who have special needs. The dental clinic at Gillette Children's is one of only three facilities in the metro area that is specially equipped to serve patients who have disabilities.
Movement
February 3, 2022

Gillette Helps Athletes with Paralympic Dreams

Gillette Children's provides support and resources to help kids achieve their athletic goals. Our therapeutic recreation specialists take pride in helping kids improve their strength and flexibility while having the fun experience of playing sports.
Bones
January 29, 2022

Steven Koop To Be First Teacher Emeritus at Gillette Children’s

Gillette Children’s has a rich history of teaching students, residents and fellows. To ensure that this strong tradition continues, Steven Koop, MD will be the very first Teacher Emeritus at Gillette.
Bones
January 26, 2022

How to Walk with Crutches Following Hip Preservation Surgery

Learn how to walk and transition from beds, couches, and chairs after a child has hip preservation surgery.
COVID-19
January 25, 2022

Help at Home with Gillette Virtual Rehab

You and your child can have access to the same trusted team of Gillette Children’s physical, occupational, and speech/language therapists from the safety and comfort of your own home. Thanks to technology and expanded access, Gillette Children’s has improved our virtual rehab therapy program.
Rehabilitation
January 19, 2022

What Our CARF Accreditation Means For You and Your Child’s Care

We're one of the best children's hospitals in the U.S. because of our commitment to international standards of person-centered care as outlined by CARF.
Why I’m Here
January 16, 2022

The Power of Story: A Conversation with Tammy Sinkfield-Morey

When Tammy Sinkfield-Morey began her career as a nurse at Gillette, she was the first black woman to do so. Through the years, she’s been a tireless advocate for building a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace at Gillette. We recently spoke with Tammy about an article she co-authored in Creative Nursing, and what celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day means to her.
Safety and Wellness
Gillette patient Peter Adkins is being pushed up his home entrance ramp by his parent
January 12, 2022

Preparing Your Wheelchair for Snow

From wheelchair snow blades to wintertime maintenance, we've covered all the things you need to know to travel through snowy streets and sidewalks.
January 11, 2022

Gillette Care for Scoliosis and Spine Issues Makes a Splash

We get an update on one of the most popular stories posted on our Gillette Stories site. Owen Earl is still active thanks to spine surgery at Gillette Children's to help with a curvature in his back due to scoliosis. Gillette performs 80% of spinal fusion procedures in Minnesota and 65% of spine fusions to correct scoliosis.
Bones
January 5, 2022

What Is Lipomyelomeningocele?

Lipomyelomeningocele is a fatty mass under the skin on the child’s back, often seen as a lump on the child's spine. Learn more about this Spina Bifida condition.
Bones
January 4, 2022

Gillette Welcomes Katie Peltz, PA 

Katie Peltz, PA recently joined the Orthopedics team at Gillette Children’s. Peltz specializes in treating idiopathic, neuromuscular and congenital scoliosis, along with a variety of other conditions.
Bones
January 2, 2022

Our Iron Butterfly: My New Year’s Resolution for My Daughter and Our Family

I have always said that the only thing that I want for Peyton is for her to be able to “create her own story.” I want her to tell us what she is capable of doing and not let anyone believe less of her.
Brain
December 30, 2021

An Ordinary Day and an Extraordinary Recovery from TBI

Caleb Binkert wrapped up a preholiday evening shift as a cashier at a Target in Vadnais Heights, Minnesota on November 6, 2020. He put on his bike helmet, his reflective clothing and started biking home around 9:30pm. Caleb, 17, does not remember anything from that day as he rode through a crosswalk to continue his journey home. In an instant his life changed.
Safety and Wellness
gillette patient hope youngquist blowing bubbles
December 29, 2021

How Do I Prepare My Child for Their Surgery?

Learn how to have age-appropriate conversations about pediatric surgery with your child. Our guide walks you through talking about surgery to kids of all ages.
Brain
December 27, 2021

Aaron’s Cerebral Palsy Odyssey

Aaron Navarro is a teenager from Grandview, Texas. He's an active member of his high school debate team and runs 5K races (even though he’ll tell you that running isn’t his favorite thing). His mother, Christine, will tell you that the fact that he is running at all is nothing short of remarkable.
December 23, 2021

Gillette Nurses Bring Comfort and Joy

Many nurses, providers and staff at Gillette Children's are working over the holidays to ensure the high level of patient care continues. Nurse Kelsey Koppy works on the inpatient neurosciences unit and says forming a special holiday bond with families is something she "wouldn't trade for anything."
Bones
December 22, 2021

Signs Your Child Has an ACL Tear

From severe pain and swelling to popping sounds, these are the signs your child has a torn ACL and sports injury.
Bones
Children looking at presents
December 20, 2021

Gift Ideas for Children Who Have Special Needs

Finding the perfect gift isn’t easy – and when you’re shopping for kids and young adults who have sensory issues, physical disabilities or other special needs, it can prove even more challenging. Here are some tips from the experts at Gillette Children's.
Community
December 16, 2021

Rolling out the Red Carpet at Gillette Children’s

Self-proclaimed sushi fanatic, and a singer who has performed with Whitney Houston and Jennifer Hudson says if he was a better test-taker he might not be the new vice president of operations and chief operating officer for Gillette Children's. Thomas Harris, Jr. says his main focus is to make the Gillette experience smooth and enjoyable for families and staff.
December 15, 2021

How to Talk to Your Child About Their Diagnosis

Talking to your child about their medical diagnosis doesn’t have to be a solo pursuit. Your family has real, life-changing support at Gillette Children’s. 
Patient Stories
December 10, 2021

Chloe and Gracie, Connected by Friendship, a Bridge and Spina Bifida

Today we're sharing the story of Chloe and Gracie, two longtime Gillette patients connected by their shared condition of spina bifida, but much more important than that, their profound friendship. 
Community
December 9, 2021

The Stories and Smiles: The KS95 for Kids Radiothon is Back

The emotional stories, the positive energy and people pulling together for a great cause are all part of this year’s KS95 for Kids Radiothon at the Mall of America on Dec. 10. This on-air radio fundraiser benefits Gillette Children's and M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital.
Cerebral Palsy
December 8, 2021

Busting Common Cerebral Palsy Myths

There are a lot of good questions out there about cerebral palsy but there are also misconceptions. Check out the common CP myths that need busting.
Safety and Wellness
December 7, 2021

Handwashing Can Be Fun—Really!

To mark National Handwashing Awareness Week the Child and Family Services team at Gillette Children's shares tips on how to teach children to keep their hands clean to avoid germs and take precautions against COVID-19.
Brain
Jordan the marathoner
December 2, 2021

Jeffrey Bergeman: The Marathon Man

After Jeffrey received an intrathecal baclofen pump that would help manage his cerebral palsy at Gillette, his world opened up. He inspired his dad to become a marathon runner and even became an official "marathon maniac" in his own right.
Bones
December 1, 2021

Skeletal Dysplasia in Children

Learn about skeletal dysplasia, a genetic disorder that causes abnormally shaped bones, especially in the head, spine and bones of the arms and legs.
Cerebral Palsy
November 30, 2021

The Journey of Mateo Arcos: Hope, Love and Cerebral Palsy

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.
Safety and Wellness
November 24, 2021

Staying Thankful and Safe During the Holiday Season

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.
COVID-19
November 24, 2021

How Our Cleaning Methods Keep You Safe

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.
Cerebral Palsy
November 23, 2021

New Gillette Urology Provider Ready to Build Strong Patient Relationships

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.
Bones
November 18, 2021

Access and Excellence Across Minnesota

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.
Bones
November 17, 2021

What Is an Arthroscopic Procedure?

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.
Brain
November 16, 2021

Richie Rises: One Family’s Epilepsy 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
COVID-19
November 11, 2021

Helping Your Child During a Vaccination

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.
Brain
November 9, 2021

Epilepsy Diagnosis, Treatment and Support at Gillette

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.
COVID-19
November 5, 2021

Relief and Gratitude as COVID-19 Vaccines Approved for Children

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.
Brain
Gillette epilepsy and seizure patient George
November 4, 2021

What Happens When You Have Your First Seizure

George Jamison clearly remembers the moment. He was with his older brother, Jack, at summer camp, having the type of fun that only 8 and 10-year-olds can. Then everything went black. When he awoke, a lot had changed.
Safety and Wellness
October 27, 2021

Is it Bullying or Teasing?

October is bullying prevention month and a time to raise awareness about the harm created by bullies. The Director of Child and Family Services at Gillette Children's says teamwork between parents and teachers is the key to help kids feel safe. He suggests some tips to help parents discern if their child is being bullied or simply being teased.
Rare Conditions
October 20, 2021

Bennett and Spina Bifida

It’s funny, you never know at the time when you’re living the day that will change your life forever. But that’s what happened to me the day I met a boy named Bennett.
Pediatrics
October 19, 2021

When to be Concerned About Stuttering

Stuttering is one of the most common reasons children come to Gillette Children's for a speech evaluation. Stuttering affects about 70 million people worldwide, including 3 million people in the United States. Gillette speech-language pathologist, Graham Schenck, PhD, shares when parents should be concerned about their child's speech.
Patient Stories
October 15, 2021

A Medical Journey That Begins with ZaLayaa

ZaLayaa Wandrick is 9 years old. She’s an excellent cook, crafter and loves science, soccer and coding, but for much of her life, has had to deal with multiple sensory and complex medical conditions. Since her infancy, Zalayaa has endured a variety of different symptoms that have impacted her daily life, but perhaps the most frustrating thing about all of it has been that the underlying cause of these issues remained a mystery.
Rehabilitation
October 12, 2021

Gillette Physical Therapists Share Personal Stories

Gillette is one of the nation’s top providers of pediatric inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation. October is National Physical Therapy Month and a time to learn more about a few members of the Gillette PT team. A few of our physical therapists share their personal stories of what inspired them to enter the field and moments with patients they'll never forget.
Cerebral Palsy
October 6, 2021

Simple Ways to Celebrate World CP Day

Gillette Children's is internationally known for its excellence in caring for people diagnosed with cerebral palsy and is encouraging people to mark World CP Day on October 6, 2021. For nearly 125 years the doctors, nurses, therapists and staff at Gillette have worked every day to provide the very best care for all children.
Cerebral Palsy
October 4, 2021

Gillette Celebrates the 75th Annual Meeting of the AACPDM

The 75th Annual Meeting of the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine (AACPDM) will begin on October 6. Throughout the course of the week, more than 25 Gillette experts will present and share their expertise with medical providers from all over the country. Among those experts will be Tom Novacheck, MD, an orthopedic surgeon, one of the leaders of Gillette’s CP team and the incoming President of the AACPDM in 2022.   
COVID-19
September 28, 2021

Health Officials Warn of Triple Threat as Flu, COVID-19 and RSV Collide

Parents and health officials are bracing for what some are calling a “triple threat” to the health of children as the COVID-19 pandemic collides with the start of flu season and a surge of respiratory syncytial virus or RSV. Gillette is boosting efforts to make sure children who are medically fragile get a flu vaccination and is educating people about how to curb RSV and COVID-19.
Rare Conditions
September 24, 2021

Not All Heroes Wear Capes, But Colton Does 

Colton is 7 years old and this past April, had his 60th surgical procedure. Read Colton's remarkable story of resiliency in the face of adversity, here.
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