Patient Stories

The Ladmans

The Ladmans first experience with Scottsdale Healthcare was on March 14, 2002, as they celebrated the birth of their daughter, Brynlee. Their positive experience would resonate with Kristin Ladman two-and-a-half years later as her daughter repeatedly became ill with an unknown condition.

During her first episode, marked by repeated vomiting, a rapid heart rate, and a seizure, paramedics airlifted Brynlee downtown to Phoenix Children's Hospital. Since her initial visit in July 2004, Brynlee was treated at Phoenix Children's Hospital on one other occasion. During her last eight episodes, lasting anywhere between four to six days, Brynlee has been treated at Scottsdale Healthcare's Pediatrics Department on the Shea campus. "Scottsdale Healthcare is much closer to home and it's more comfortable for her," Mrs. Ladman says.

Not knowing the cause of their daughter's illness is frustrating for the Ladmans. By working with the physicians and specialists at Scottsdale Healthcare, they hope to find answers soon. "If every parent has the opportunity to feel what it's like to sit here, to watch your own child and not know what's going on or even what to do about it, I think absolutely anyone would support the program no matter what."

Throughout their relationship with Scottsdale Healthcare, the Ladmans continue to be reassured by the members of the Pediatrics Department staff. "Unfortunately we know the faces here all to well, but it's comforting to know you're in good hands, to have that continual support," says Mrs. Ladman. "They're constantly checking in to see how Brynlee's doing, to see how I'm doing. It's just been a very positive experience."

It seems as one Scottsdale Healthcare facility is completed, another need demands attention. In response to parent requests to provide comprehensive kids' care in our own community, we have expanded the programs and services offered by the Pediatrics Department at Scottsdale Healthcare's Shea campus. Supported by the philanthropy of our generous donors and friends, the new Children's Center opened on the fourth floor of the hospital in February 2005.

With nearly four times the space, the 28-bed department has the ability to accommodate the families of young patients. During the winter season, the Children's Center cares for as many as 24 patients per day. In 2004, the a Child Life Specialist was added to the staff. With the ultimate goal of helping patients and their families reduce the stress that accompanies a child's hospitalization, Child Life Specialists are trained to meet the special needs of children throughout their development, as well as create a safe environment to help them cope with the changes a hospitalization can bring.

Other amenities of the Children's Center include specialized equipment, décor, and entertainment, as well as the addition of a finishing kitchen, which allows the staff to make their small patients warm meals, such as grilled cheese sandwiches, at their request.

For more information on how you can help support Scottsdale Healthcare's programs and services, please contact Scottsdale Healthcare Foundation at 480-882-4517.

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