Christopher

Christopher was born with a congenital heart defect. His aorta was so narrow that it would eventually have cut off his blood flow. Dr. Michael Teodori repaired his heart in 2002 when Christopher was only five days old. It was the family's first experience with Phoenix Children's and Christopher spent two weeks at the Hospital.

This past New Year's Eve, Christopher developed a sinus infection that turned into a brain abscess. Christopher's brain abscess was a large mass pushing directly on the front of his brain. When Christopher was treated for his brain abscess he was treated by Dr. Shafron, Dr. Papez, Dr. Rudinsky, Dr. Pinckard-Hansen, Dr. Silber, Dr. Simms, and about ten other physicians.

How has Christopher's illnesses affected your life?

The experience reminds us to cherish every single day and the recognition of how fragile things can be. It has also showed us the value of having a world class children's hospital in our community.

How long was Christopher's hospitalization when he was treated for his brain abscess?

Twenty days. Now we are at Phoenix Children's just about every week for therapy services. With ongoing therapy, it becomes a built in reality of each week's schedule.

What is your favorite thing about or service offered at Phoenix Children's?

The Child Life specialists made the long hospitalization bearable.

What is the most difficult aspect of being hospitalized or your treatment?

Having to balance the reality that one of us had to be in the room 24 hours a day.

Is there an aspect of Christopher's care at Phoenix Children's that stands out in your mind?

Ten years ago, some of the successful surgical techniques did not exist in Arizona. Phoenix Children's is a point of pride for our community that gives many children a second chance.

How has Christopher's diagnoses changed your philosophy of life?

To live each day to the fullest extent possible and don't allow the minutia to get in the way.