CHKD KidStuff, Fall 2025

KidStuff Fall 2025

No Limits for Daniel Celebrating 20 years of pet therapy Chest wall surgery brings teen boy new confidence

Community Benefit Report

Contents

FALL 2025

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News from Around the Blocks

KidStuff is a publication of Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters 601 Children’s Lane, Norfolk, VA 23507 (757) 668-7043

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From ACL Injury to Olympic Dreams

President & CEO Amy Sampson

High schooler Madison Udoh makes a comeback after surgery to repair her ACL and meniscus.

10 Round of A-Paws

Buddy Brigade program celebrates 20 years of canine companionship.

12 A Lifetime of Complex Care

Thomas Marlowe-Santiago finds new confidence after chest wall reconstruction and years of specialty treatment at CHKD.

16 No Limits for Daniel

Ten-year-old with spina bifida breaks through physical barriers to play hockey.

18 Community Benefit Report

CHKD’s community benefit totals $185 million in fiscal year 2024.

20 When Their “Why” Hit Home

Jeff and Gaye Benson find special meaning in their support after their granddaughter’s cancer diagnosis.

22 Your Support Makes Our Kids Stronger 23 Make a Lasting Impact at CHKD 24 Our Donors Make a Difference PHOTOGRAPH BY Susan Lowe

OUR BOARDS OF DIRECTORS (as of October 1, 2025)

– Children’s Health System – Brian Skinner, Chair

Julie Beck

Miles Leon

Larry Bernert

Katrina Lesher, MD

George Clarke

Lemuel Lewis

Martha Colen

Kevin Murphy

Mark Compton

Scott Nottingham, MD

Leslie Doyle

Kieran Poulos

Kim Georges

Taylor Priest

Owen Griffin

Amy Sampson

Akhil Jain

Eleanor Smith

Katherine Knaus John Lawson

Carl St. Remy, MD Susan Wynne

– The King’s Daughters – Taylor Priest, President

Robin Broadnax

Nicole Legum

Beth Bryant

Carter Madson

Leslie Crocker

Amy Moynihan

Lori Fagan

Carie Shiels

Laura Fulton

Sunny Sonner

Margaret Kelly

Renee S. Walker

Carrie L. Lauck

Carrie Williams

– KidStuff Editorial Team – Editor-in-Chief

Ridgely Ingersoll

Medical Editor

Chris Foley, MD

Executive Editor

Heather Kent

Managing Editor

Brandi Potts

Associate Editor Art Director

MaryClaire Hudson Eric Cardenas

© 2025 Children’s Health System Inc. To be removed from the KidStuff mailing list, email Gifts@CHKD.org or call (757) 668-7070.

Harmoni Nelson, pictured here at 10 months old, was born prematurely and spent the first year of her life at CHKD, receiving treatment in our critical care unit and learning to breathe on her own.

In the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, CHKD’s expert care team treats life-threatening conditions, provides post-operative care after complex surgery, cares for children who are dependent on ventilators, and helps educate, train, and prepare families for life after hospitalization.

Connect with CHKD through social media.

CHKD.org

News from Around the Blocks

CHKD Board of Directors Welcomes New Officers As of the new fiscal year, which began on July 1, 2025, Children’s Health System named the following officers to its board of directors for a one-year term.

Brian Skinner, Chair President, Virginia & Northeastern North Carolina, TowneBank

Miles Leon, Vice Chair President, Chairman & CEO, S.L. Nusbaum

Owen Griffin, Treasurer President & Chief Financial Officer, Currie Medical

Larry Bernert III, Secretary Senior Managing Director, Clearstead Advisory Solutions

CHKD Named Center of Excellence

2 Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

Honoring Akhil Jain’s Service and Leadership

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hile Akhil Jain has and continues to contribute to the success of CHKD Health System in myriad ways, his most profound legacy at CHKD will undoubtedly be his leadership of our response to the pediatric mental health crisis.

Jain joined CHKD’s Board of Directors in 2017 and served as its chair from 2020 to 2025. He was a member of the board that voted unanimously to expand CHKD’s mission to encompass our children’s mental health. He supported the decision to build Children’s Pavilion and actively participated in the development of the facility and its programming. His strong, principled leadership was also vital to CHKD’s response to the COVID pandemic.

Jain is a community leader of extraordinary accomplishment. He is president of Landmark Hotel Group, one of the Mid-Atlantic region’s premier hotel management firms, and was recognized on Power Lists by both Virginia Business and Inside Business. He has served as a director on the boards of TowneBank, the Coliseum Central Business Improvement District, the Hampton Roads Community Leadership Partners, Virginia Beach Vision, and 757 Angels. The Virginia Beach native and resident was named King Neptune in 2024, in honor of his community service.

“Akhil is an incredibly dedicated and supportive advocate of our mission, and as chair of our Health System Board of Directors, he helped guide

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n recognition of the hospital’s commitment to patient safety and exceptional hand hygiene practices, CHKD has been nationally recognized as a 2025 Center of Excellence by Vitalacy, which partners with hospitals worldwide to provide electronic hand hygiene monitoring and other systems to improve patient safety precautions.

This award celebrates the outstanding efforts of CHKD's Infection Prevention and Control team, which has driven initiatives such as our Wonder Washers hand hygiene program to track and report on CHKD's progress toward reducing hospital-acquired infections using Vitalacy technology. It also recognizes the strong

our organization through very challenging and unprecedented times,” says CHKD President and CEO Amy Sampson. “While his time as chair has ended, we are fortunate that he will continue to serve on our board of directors for another year.

“We are equally grateful to have Brian Skinner assume the role of chair of our board,” Sampson continues. “Brian is an exceptional leader and has been a guiding force for our organization for well over a decade as a member of our board and longstanding supporter of our mission.”

performance of our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which helped drive this achievement.

Hand hygiene is one of the most effective and proven methods for preventing the spread of infections in healthcare settings. Clean hands save lives. Consistent hand hygiene reduces the risk of healthcare-associated infections, improves patient outcomes, and supports a culture of safety across all areas of care.

At left, representatives from our NICU and Infection Prevention and Control teams celebrate receiving the award – a reflection of Team CHKD’s dedication to delivering the safest, highest-quality care possible for all patients.

Fall 2025 3

CHKD at Oyster Point Celebrates 20th Anniversary

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his year marks a special milestone for CHKD's Health and Surgery Center at Oyster Point, the Peninsula’s premier location for pediatric care.

Since 2005, the center has improved access to CHKD’s unique pediatric services such as rehabilitative therapies, lab, X-ray, specialty care, surgery, and more for Peninsula children and families.

Dr. Marc Tsou, who served as a pediatric gastroenterologist at CHKD for 32 years and now manages provider relations and community engagement, performed one of the first procedures at the center. “It was incredibly exciting to have an ambulatory surgical center for the Peninsula – you could feel the energy in the air,” Dr. Tsou recalls.

“Many people don’t realize just how large the Peninsula is and how many children there rely on CHKD’s services. Driving through a tunnel or across a bridge to seek care for your child can be daunting.

Bringing care closer to these families’ homes was a really important step for the community.”

Dr. Marc Tsou, a pediatric gastroenterologist at CHKD in 2005, and nurse Nancy Elam check in on a patient’s recovery after a successful gastrointestinal procedure on Oyster Point’s opening day.

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New Dentistry Program Offers Gentle Care for Little Smiles

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HKD is excited to introduce its recently launched Pediatric Dentistry Program, offering expert, compassionate care tailored to the youngest patients.

Led by board-certified pediatric dentist Dr. Ashley Anderson, the program is designed for children age 6 and under who are covered by Medicaid, as well as those with cleft and craniofacial conditions and those with special healthcare needs who still have baby teeth.

This specialized program focuses on both prevention and treatment. Services include routine cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, and restorative care such as fillings, crowns, and extractions. Sedation options, pain management, and individualized treatment plans ensure that each child receives the safest, most comfortable care possible.

Dr. Anderson and her team are dedicated to making dental visits a positive experience. With a gentle touch and a focus on building lifelong healthy habits, they help every child feel safe, supported, and confident – one smile at a time.

ECMO Program Recognized for Exceptional Patient Care

Bennett Pope, who has used a tracheostomy tube to help him breathe since he was 3 months old, is shown here just a year after battling pneumonia and receiving lifesaving ECMO therapy at CHKD.

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HKD’s Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Program has earned the Gold Level ELSO Award for Excellence in Life Support for its exceptional lifesaving care. The award, given by the international nonprofit Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO), makes CHKD a Designated Gold Level Center of Excellence.

ECMO is a highly specialized life support system that temporarily takes over the functions of the heart and lungs when they are unable to adequately perform their roles. This therapy can support extremely ill children while other treatments help them recover from serious, but reversible, medical conditions.

It has saved the lives of patients like 10-year-old Bennett Pope, who was born with a rare genetic condition called congenital myopathy. Because he’s unable to cough on his own, a common cold can quickly develop into pneumonia. In 2021, Bennett battled a severe case and nearly died before doctors at CHKD saved him using ECMO therapy.

CHKD is the only hospital in Hampton Roads offering ECMO for pediatric patients, making this recognition particularly meaningful for families in the region.

The program serves children of all ages who are facing life-threatening respiratory or cardiac conditions.

“We are honored to receive such a prestigious award for the critical care services and life support that our ECMO team provides,” says Christopher Denmark, CHKD’s ECMO manager.

The program’s achievements were guided by former surgical director Dr. Philip Smith and are now carried forward by current ECMO Medical Director Dr. Meaghan Dominy and Surgical Director Dr. Franklin Margaron. “We are fortunate to work with a multidisciplinary group to provide ECMO support to a range of patients, offering them a second chance at life,” says Dr. Dominy.

This Gold Level designation affirms CHKD’s commitment to maintaining high standards in specialized critical care and offering advanced therapies to children throughout the region.

Fall 2025 5

Eighteen-month-old Ridley Golom, who was born with a craniofacial condition that causes an abnormal head shape, was one of the first patients at CHKD to benefit from a less invasive treatment method called the cranial springs cranioplasty.

CHKD Offers Minimally Invasive Way to Correct Craniosynostosis WRITTEN BY MaryClaire Hudson • PHOTO ABOVE BY Timeless Memories Photography by Kristen

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hen Ridley Golom was born, her parents noticed that the shape of her head was unusual. They quickly learned she had a condition called sagittal craniosynostosis in which the bones at the top of her skull fused together too early. Left untreated, the condition could worsen the abnormal shape of her head and cause developmental delays because her brain wouldn’t have the room it needed to grow.

At just 11 days old, Ridley had her first appointment at CHKD’s Cleft and Craniofacial Center. Her parents were excited to learn that Ridley qualified for a minimally invasive surgery technique called cranial springs cranioplasty, which meant she could avoid open cranial vault surgery, an extensive procedure that would have required a lengthy hospital stay and waiting until she was older to be treated.

Cranial springs cranioplasty is the latest minimally invasive procedure to be offered at CHKD’s Cleft and Craniofacial Center. These types of techniques – now the standard of care across many surgical specialties – are helping children with craniofacial conditions receive treatment with smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times.

Under the expert direction of Dr. Jesus Gil Inciong, craniofacial surgeon and director of the center, Ridley

6 Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

became one of the first CHKD patients to undergo the cranial springs procedure.

“The advantage to using the cranial springs technique is that we can take care of the child sooner, especially if we’re able to diagnose them earlier,” says Dr. Inciong.

In a two-part process, Dr. Inciong and his team first removed the fused sagittal suture bone, which runs down the middle of the head from the top of the forehead to the back of the skull. Two cranial springs were placed into the gap. Over the next several weeks, the springs expanded, gently guiding Ridley’s skull to a more typical shape while allowing space for her growing brain. After six to eight weeks of expansion and stabilization, Ridley returned for a brief outpatient surgery to remove the springs.

Thanks to the minimally invasive approach, Ridley was able to spend the majority of her recovery at home with her family.

Now 18 months old, Ridley is thriving. She’s walking, playing with her older sister, and keeping up with the family’s dogs, Taz and Winnie.

“We had a great support system at CHKD,” says Ridley’s mom, Rebecca. “All the doctors and nurses were so informative and understanding. They made sure we prioritized ourselves, too, so we could give the best care to our child.”

From ACL Injury to Olympic Dreams High schooler Madison Udoh makes a comeback after surgery to repair her ACL and meniscus WRITTEN BY Alice Warchol • PHOTOGRAPHY BY Ken Mountain

Fall 2025 7

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s the daughter of an international soccer star, Madison Udoh’s dream is to make

it to the Olympics just like her mother did for

Nigeria. Scoring goal after goal, the Virginia Beach teen

seemed unstoppable. And then, during a tournament, she collided with another player, who landed on top of her left knee.

“I thought I would be out one or two weeks,” Madison

ACL Program, who walked them through every step –

from what the surgery would entail to the physical therapy Madison would need to complete before she could return safely to the soccer field. Mistr coordinated her care from

start to finish, including working closely with the CHKD certified athletic trainer at Madison’s school, Kempsville High in Virginia Beach.

As Madison’s surgery date approached, she and

says. “But the swelling didn’t go down.”

her parents leaned on their faith and took comfort in

orthopedic surgeon and surgical director of the hospital’s

Mercy Akide-Udoh, who also coaches her soccer team,

Her parents took her to Dr. Marc Cardelia, a CHKD

comprehensive Sports Medicine Program.

After reviewing her MRI, Dr. Cardelia explained that

Madison would need surgery

knowing she was in expert hands. Madison’s mom,

reminded her daughter to stay grounded in gratitude.

“I believe God is going to use Dr. Cardelia to heal you,” she told Madison.

In the operating room,

to repair her meniscus – and

“Our goal was for Dr. Cardelia, who’s performed hundreds of ACL repairs, injury for female soccer players.

Madison to come back confirmed what everyone feared: He wouldn’t know for certain both the ACL and meniscus whether her ACL was torn until stronger than ever and were torn. he could examine the damage Madison cried when she during surgery. If it was torn, she to have a healthy knee woke up and heard the news. wouldn’t be able to play soccer for nine to 12 months. for the rest of her life.” But she also committed herself possibly a torn ACL, a common

Madison was devastated.

“Soccer is my life,” she says.

Dr. Marc Cardelia, CHKD orthopedic surgeon

Dr. Cardelia reassured Madison

that she would come back stronger than ever to be the athlete she wanted to be.

“For a lot of serious athletes, sports is their identity, the

hub of their social network – so being cut off from their team, their friends, and not being able to do what they

want is very hard on them emotionally,” Dr. Cardelia says.

“That’s why we put all hands on deck to keep the kids

positive, focused on getting better, and adhering to the

to the recovery ahead.

Throughout the next 10 months,

Madison worked tirelessly. With

the support of her family, her CHKD physical therapist Lauren Pierce, and her teammates, she pushed through every setback.

Finally, the day came: Madison was cleared to return to

practice. And in her very first game back, she scored. She

sprinted to the sidelines and leapt into her mother’s arms.

“I’m back!” she shouted, with tears in her eyes.

Today, Madison is once again playing the sport she

protocol so they don’t put their reconstruction at risk.”

loves – as a standout member of Steel United Virginia

Dr. Cardelia says his primary objective was to make sure

to earn a spot at a Power 5 school (those in the top five

While patients mainly focus on being able to play again,

Madison would have a healthy knee for the rest of her life.

The family also met with Adam Mistr, a certified

athletic trainer and sports surgery coordinator of CHKD’s

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and Kempsville High’s varsity team. Her next goal is

NCAA conferences) and keep her Olympic dreams alive.

No matter where she plays next, the team at CHKD

Sports Medicine will be rooting for her success.

Madison’s resilience and determination to get back on the field, coupled with individualized care through CHKD’s ACL Program and rigorous sessions with her CHKD physical therapist Lauren Pierce, earned her the go-ahead for full activity after 10 months.

Fall 2025 9

10 Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

Round of A-Paws

Buddy Brigade program celebrates 20 years of canine companionship

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WRITTEN BY Alice Warchol

t CHKD, we understand that sometimes the best medicine has four paws

and a wagging tail. For 20 years, our

Buddy Brigade pet therapy program has brought unconditional love, motivation, and snuggles to

children and families throughout our hospital system.

The program, which began with just seven dogs,

has grown into a team of 41 four-legged volunteers

who visit children at our main hospital, our Children’s

Pavilion, our Child Advocacy Centers, and the CHKD Health Center at Oakbrooke.

Throughout the years, 233 dogs – current members

included – and their volunteer handlers have made countless visits to patient rooms and waiting areas,

lifting the spirits of our young patients, families, and staff members. The adorable pups have even dressed up in costume and paraded through the halls of our main hospital.

Each dog is certified by Alliance of Therapy Dogs

or Pet Partners, has been thoroughly trained and

evaluated to work with children, and has met the

rigorous behavioral and physical screening process

required to join this elite crew of canine celebrities.

“When we started the Buddy Brigade program

20 years ago, we had no idea how much these pups and volunteers would mean to our patients, their families, and our staff,” says Joy Parker, director of Volunteer

Services and Family Centered Care at CHKD. “Our

organization has embraced pet therapy wholeheartedly, and we look forward to what the future brings.”

Fall 2025 11

A Lifetime of Complex Care Thomas Marlowe-Santiago finds new confidence after chest wall reconstruction and years of specialty treatment at CHKD WRITTEN BY MaryClaire Hudson • PHOTOGRAPHY BY Ken Mountain

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homas Marlowe-Santiago has been coming to CHKD

since the day he was born, when

doctors in the delivery room noticed

something odd about his heartbeat: it

was loudest on the right (or in this case, wrong) side of his chest.

Thomas has a condition called situs

But that’s not all this brave young man

has had to deal with. He also has Poland syndrome, which is characterized by a

missing pectoralis muscle, in his case on his left side. And, as a teen, Thomas developed pectus excavatum, a condition in which the chest wall sinks in toward the spine.

Fortune was on Thomas’ side in another

inversus, which means his internal

respect, however. His hometown, go-to

body from those with normal anatomy.

happens to be the top international center

organs are on the opposite side of the

This mirror-image flip is one aspect of a genetic condition that Thomas has

hospital that has treated him since birth just for the treatment of pectus excavatum.

Being able to receive comprehensive care

called Kartagener syndrome, which also

across many specialties in one place – one

structures that are essential for a wide range

a lifesaver for Thomas and his family. “If

involves dysfunction of cilia, tiny hair-like of functions in the body. In Thomas’ case, this dysfunction causes him to experience frequent respiratory and sinus infections.

that’s just for children and teens – has been it weren’t for CHKD, my son wouldn’t be here,” says Thomas’ dad, Brian LaRose.

CHKD’s leadership in the field of pectus

Since his first transfer to CHKD’s

excavatum started in the 1990s, when Dr.

has been hospitalized at CHKD several

developed a minimally invasive procedure

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Thomas additional times for pneumonia and bronchitis. Over his 16 years, the

Virginia Beach teen has been treated by

a host of specialists at CHKD, including

pulmonologists; cardiologists; ear, nose, and throat surgeons; and allergy, asthma, and

immunology specialists. He does physical

therapy every day, wearing a special vest that vibrates to help dislodge mucus and keep

his lungs clear. He also takes medications for asthma and allergies.

12 Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

Donald Nuss and his CHKD colleagues

to reshape the chest wall of patients with pectus excavatum. Known as the Nuss procedure, the technique has become

the preferred method to correct pectus excavatum throughout the world. And

now that most children’s hospitals offer

the Nuss procedure, CHKD has become

known for handling the most complex cases of pectus excavatum and for international

collaborations that have advanced the field of chest wall reconstruction.

Fall 2025 13

“If it weren’t for CHKD, my son wouldn’t be here.”

Brian LaRose, Thomas’ dad

“A child who comes to CHKD for chest wall

reconstruction today has many more options than

children did even a decade ago. From cranes and more

inability to engage in activities he would otherwise be able to do.”

In addition, the chest can be very sensitive for weeks

hardware choices that help us manipulate the chest wall

after the Nuss procedure. Surgeons use curved metal

that use suction or bracing, our surgeons are versed in all

press the sternum and ribs out into a normal shape. The

in the operating room, to non-surgical interventions

of the latest techniques so we can offer the best choice for each patient based on their condition, preferences,

and lifestyle,” says Dr. Michael Goretsky, division chief for Pediatric Surgery and co-surgical director of the Nuss Center.

Thomas’ case definitely fell into the “most complex”

category, says CHKD surgeon Dr. Franklin Margaron, who treated Thomas. “Thomas’ muscular asymmetry

and underlying respiratory issues presented challenges,” says Dr. Margaron. “When you and I inhale, our

sternum expands outward,” he explains. “Thomas’

bars that go under the sternum and are affixed to ribs to bars remain in place for several years while the chest wall matures and hardens.

Dr. Margaron was concerned that the agitation from

Thomas’ compression vest might be very painful, or even dislodge the Nuss bars from their proper position. But if

Thomas doesn’t use his vest every day, he risks developing lung infections, including pneumonia.

“Thomas’ unique physiology called for a dramatic

degree of correction combined with the most stability we could offer,” says Dr. Margaron.

For Thomas, Dr. Margaron opted to use a system of

sternum rotated inwards toward his heart and lungs

surgical instruments and implants developed in Korea by

“Severe pectus excavatum like Thomas’ can cause

Nuss procedure that uses additional bars and a different

when he inhaled.

direct cardiac compression, which can lead to valvular dysfunction, arrhythmias, and a number of different problems,” says Dr. Margaron. “For Thomas, that

would have potentially led to shortness of breath and 14 Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

Dr. Hyung Joo Park. The Park system is a variation of the system of anchoring them to offer additional stability.

Thomas went into surgery on December 20, 2022.

“This was the first major surgery that my son ever had.

I was petrified that something would go wrong,” says Lisa

LaRose, Thomas’ mom. “But Dr. Margaron made Thomas very comfortable. He also kept checking on us, letting me know that Thomas was OK.”

Brian shares Lisa’s gratitude for Thomas’ care at CHKD:

“Everybody in the hospital was checking on him, and my wife and me, making sure we had something to drink, to

eat, pillows and blankets, what we needed as the parents,” he says. “From the cafeteria workers to the cleaning crew, nurses, and doctors, everybody I came across was very friendly and courteous.”

That positive emotional boost is a common side effect of

chest wall reconstruction.

Many patients with uncorrected pectus excavatum

experience negative body image that can lead to avoiding activities or obsessing over their appearance. “Before his surgery, Thomas went through a rough spot where he

didn’t like the way he looked,” says his mom. “That was

really the main reason why we sought the referral to the Nuss Center.”

“There is usually a significant psychological change in

Thomas recalls being nervous before surgery, but happy

patients,” says Dr. Margaron. “Patients gain more than the

doctors working on me. I remember feeling happiness and

It changes the trajectory of an individual’s future and the

afterward: “I trusted the doctors; I knew I had the top relief when I woke up from surgery.”

Thomas was discharged from the hospital on December

ability to breathe more comfortably. They gain confidence. way they feel about themselves.”

Thomas will have the bars removed when he is 17,

24. “Our Christmas miracle,” Lisa says. In the next few

three years after his initial surgery. After that, he plans

capabilities. “My balance got better. I could take a deep

the look of his missing pectoralis muscle. He will also

months, he noticed a marked improvement in his physical breath. I was able to run for longer,” he says. “My strength

started coming back, and I was able to build more muscle.”

Before surgery, having no pectoralis muscle on his left side meant Thomas’ sternum rotated severely in that direction.

It kept him from strength training. Now, Thomas goes to the gym daily. “My self-confidence skyrocketed,” he says.

to consult with a plastic surgeon on options to minimize continue to follow up with his pulmonologist to keep his lungs as healthy as possible.

But Thomas is happy with his results today. “The

surgery has improved the way I look and feel. I feel normal,” he says. “It’s definitely worth it.”

Since having metal bars placed into his chest to reshape his sternum, Thomas says he can finally take a deep breath. After three years of follow-up checkups and imaging, he expects to have the bars removed in early 2026.

Fall 2025 15

No Limits for Daniel Ten-year-old with spina bifida breaks through physical barriers to play hockey WRITTEN BY Jessica Davenport • PHOTOGRAPHY BY Amanda MacDiarmid

After trying many sports in his wheelchair with support and encouragement from his parents, Jackie Izzo and Trevor Trenholm, Daniel found a love for adaptive sled hockey and is fearless when he suits up in his goalie gear.

16 Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

D

aniel Izzo doesn’t let anything slow

and reduces stress on families. Last year, children

At 10, he’s tackled more than most

Bifida Clinic.

him down.

adults: 12 surgeries, countless appointments, and

made more than 200 visits to CHKD’s Spina Daniel’s longtime physical medicine and

the daily mobility challenges that come from

rehabilitation provider, Dr. Charles Dillard, has

bifida. But the young sports fan would much

is a wonderful kid with lots of friends, and has a

living with myelomeningocele, a form of spina rather focus on what he can do – like adaptive ice

hockey – or dream up something entirely new like wheelchair football.

Each year in the U.S., one in nearly 3,000 babies

are born with spina bifida, a birth defect that occurs when the spinal cord doesn’t fully close during fetal development. Daniel, who was diagnosed at birth, was less than 24 hours old when he underwent

neurosurgery to close the opening in his back and have a shunt placed in his brain

to help drain spinal fluid. Daniel and his family soon moved to Virginia Beach to be closer

to family, transferring his care to CHKD. “He’s been with

CHKD practically his whole life,” says his mom, Jackie.

Daniel is a welcome visitor at

treated Daniel since he was a preschooler. “Daniel very involved family,” says Dr. Dillard. “Kids with spina bifida can face challenges involving muscle

control, bladder and bowel function, and changes with growth. When old people like me get hurt, we just stop doing stuff. The nice thing about

kids, especially ones like Daniel, is they figure out ways around those limitations.”

“We never treated him differently and we

encouraged him to do things himself,” says

Jackie. “I think that’s what really pushed him to be

Last year, CHKD’s where he is now.”

Daniel has played basketball, Spina Bifida Clinic tennis, and baseball, but a new passion sparked when the family helped 105 discovered the Warrior for Life local children.

Fund adaptive sled hockey

CHKD’s Spina Bifida Clinic,

program. At the time, it was

only for adults, but Daniel soon

a multidisciplinary program that streamlines

became the first kid on their team.

together in a single place for one extended visit,

and have limited sensation from the mid-shin

trips to see each one. “I still remember preparing

has to miss out on the fun. He can sit in a specially

care for patients by bringing different providers

instead of asking the patient to make individual for our first visit, packing snacks and coloring

books. It was a long day, but it was smooth,” says Jackie. “The clinic is amazing.”

The Spina Bifida Clinic brings together surgical

and medical specialists from neurosurgery, urology, orthopedics, physical medicine and rehabilitation,

While Daniel may use a wheelchair permanently

down, having mobility challenges doesn’t mean he

designed sled with two blades underneath and use

sticks with metal picks to propel himself across the ice. And Daniel loves playing goalie – just as long as they don’t slap the puck too hard at him. He’s even scored two goals.

“I call him my wild child,” says Jackie. “He has

and developmental pediatrics, along with support

no fear!”

physical therapy. Visits often begin with imaging

“Daniel is able to participate in so many activities

by appointments with each provider. The team

ability to do things,” says Dr. Dillard. “He just

services such as nutrition, adaptive seating, and

such as MRIs, X-rays, and ultrasounds, followed

collaborates in real time, which keeps care efficient

His fearlessness is a trait his doctors admire.

because he never lets his limitations curtail his doesn’t take no for an answer.”

Fall 2025 17

Community Benefit Report Investing in our children, our families, and the future of our community.

For more than 60 years, Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters has been a unique asset to its community, raising the level of pediatric care available in our area and offering it to every child who needs it, regardless of any family’s ability to pay. In doing so, CHKD alleviates the government’s burden of caring for the most vulnerable of our children. We subsidize essential medical services that no one else in our community provides. We also support clinical training and education for future pediatric healthcare providers, and fund research that advances the understanding of children’s health issues.

CHKD incurs substantial costs in its efforts to enhance the quality of life for children in our region. Each year, we report these costs, along with any offsetting revenue, to the government to determine the net financial value of the benefits we provide to our community. In this Community Benefit Report, we also provide a high-level breakdown on how these funds were spent. In fiscal year 2024, CHKD’s community benefit totaled $185 million.

$55 Million

$82 Million

Medicaid and Charity Care

Community Health Improvement

CHKD was established by The King’s Daughters nearly 130 years ago to improve the health and well-being of Norfolk’s indigent children. We have always embraced the charitable mission of our founders and the profound responsibility it entails.

In fiscal year 2024, more than 56 percent of our inpatient days were covered by Medicaid, the highest percentage by far of any acute care hospital in Virginia. Because Medicaid does not cover CHKD’s true cost of providing this care, the hospital was left with a $53 million shortfall between our cost of providing these services to patients and the reimbursements we received from the government.

The hospital also provided approximately $2.5 million in charity care in that same period, for a total of nearly $55 million.

CHKD leads many efforts to make our region a healthier place for children. To identify priority needs and gaps in care, we conduct formal community health needs assessments every three years in conjunction with other area health systems. The results of these assessments give direction to CHKD’s growth as an organization, thereby ensuring that families have local access to the highly specialized pediatric care their children need most. Many of these services are available nowhere else in the region and answer pressing pediatric health needs that would otherwise go unmet. In addition, CHKD promotes physical and mental wellness, supports effective parenting, and addresses key issues like infant mortality, sports safety, and coordination of care for children with complex conditions through partnerships with schools, public health agencies, and civic organizations who share our commitment to the well-being of children.

CHKD’s Total Communi 18 Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

Zoe Scaduto, pictured here at age 8, was successfully treated at CHKD for Wilms tumor, a form of kidney cancer.

$41 Million

$7 Million

Subsidized Health Services

Education and Research

Providing the pediatric services identified by our community as top priorities often comes at great financial cost to CHKD. With the help of our generous donors, however, CHKD is able to offer vital clinical and support services even if they operate at a loss. In recent years, in response to dire needs identified by the community, CHKD has made significant financial commitments to develop a comprehensive pediatric mental health program. While this program is still growing, it now encompasses a state-of-the-art mental health hospital and outpatient center and many specific services and levels of care so that children can receive care in the least restrictive environment possible. Other programs that CHKD subsidizes to benefit our region are our Child Advocacy Center, which leads area efforts to identify, treat, and support children affected by abuse or neglect, our childhood cancer program, and pediatric urgent care.

CHKD is dedicated to advancing pediatric care through education and research. As the clinical home of the pediatric residency program of EVMS, which is now part of Macon and Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ODU, CHKD plays a central role in training future pediatricians. We also support ODU/EVMS fellowship programs in pediatric emergency medicine, clinical psychology, and child and adolescent psychiatry.

Additional post-graduate training opportunities include pediatric pharmacy, perioperative nursing, and pediatric sports medicine physical therapy. Each year, CHKD serves as the clinical setting for dozens of clinical trials and research studies. These advance care for a broad range of life-threatening pediatric conditions, including neuromuscular disorders, cystic fibrosis, cancer, and mental health disorders.

ty Benefit: $185 million

Source: CHKD’s IRS Form 990, FY2024 Fall 2025 19

The Benson family – Jeff and Gaye, Amanda and Ryan Helvig, and their children Emmy and Hudson – credits their support system at CHKD and at home for their courage and strength through Emmy’s treatment.

When Their “Why” Hit Home Jeff and Gaye Benson find special meaning in their support after their granddaughter’s cancer diagnosis WRITTEN BY Brandi Potts • PHOTOGRAPHY BY Ken Mountain

20 Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

eff Benson has always had a connection to children’s

dedicated to supporting the hospital’s mission through

lived a full life, thanks to his local children’s hospital

what CHKD does stepping into this role, but after a year

hospitals. His brother was born with spina bifida and in Atlanta, despite never being able to walk. His niece

recovered from an inflammatory illness at CHKD and is treated by a comprehensive team for Type 1 diabetes.

He’s always been inspired by philanthropy, too. As a

partner in The Overton Group, a commercial real estate firm, and a Vice Chair of the TowneBank Board of

outreach and advocacy. “I had a level of appreciation for or two, I have a greater understanding of the depth and

breadth of what CHKD needs to continue doing what it does so well,” he says. “The more support we can gather, the more opportunities CHKD has to help kids and families right here at home.”

After Emmy’s diagnosis, the Bensons and their family

Directors, Jeff has seen the difference community support

were able to find hope and relief: “How our family

examples of why it’s important to give back,” says Jeff.

important to us, coupled with CHKD’s ability to assess

can make. “Both organizations have shown me great “My wife Gaye and I have always tried to do that.”

The Bensons had been making gifts to CHKD for

decades. But in March of

stepped in and leaned into our faith, which is real and

and provide the care and treatment they began providing immediately, allowed us to become hopeful and prepared for what lay ahead.”

2023, after a tour of Children’s

Emmy’s mom and the

“Our eyes have been opened Bensons’ daughter, Amanda eyes were opened to the Helvig, says CHKD has been wider to the broad scope magnitude of CHKD’s work, a blessing to their family. of what CHKD does – how

and they decided to make a “CHKD hasn’t just cared significant pledge to support the they provide not only medical for her body – they’ve cared hospital’s mission. for her spirit,” she says. “It’s care but also hope and At the time, they had no idea doctors teaching Emmy’s encouragement and support brother magic tricks to distract how vital the hospital would soon become for their family. him while she gets her port beyond treatment.” Jeff Benson Pavilion, the pair says their

Just six months later, their

granddaughter, Emmy Helvig,

accessed. It’s the volunteers

who make her feel seen with

who had just celebrated her fifth birthday and started

new craft ideas. It’s the nurses who know to find the

leukemia. “Our decision to give to CHKD came home,”

make sure she can still be a kid, even in the middle of

kindergarten, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic says Jeff.

Their family quickly went from helping Emmy ride her

unicorn Band-Aids when she comes to the clinic. They cancer treatment.”

Today, Emmy is in the maintenance phase of her

new bike to holding her hand as she was prepped for spinal

treatment and she’s getting stronger every day. “Seeing her

the hall in the Hematology and Oncology Unit.

take for granted,” says Amanda.

taps and congratulating her for walking the full length of “Our firsthand experience intensifies and further

dance, laugh, and ride her bike again is a gift I will never The Bensons know their family’s journey would not

encourages us to provide continued support to the

have been possible without a children’s hospital like

the broad scope of what CHKD does – how they provide

can be there for all children.

hospital,” Jeff says. “Our eyes have been opened wider to not only medical care but also hope and encouragement

CHKD; the experience drives them to ensure CHKD “CHKD is a very fundamental piece of our community,”

and support beyond treatment.”

says Jeff. “Having it in the Hampton Roads area is

to serve on CHKD’s Philanthropy Council, a group

CHKD to continue to stay here and grow here.”

Emmy’s care inspired Jeff to accept an invitation

important, and philanthropic support is necessary to allow

Fall 2025 21

Your Support Makes Our Kids Stronger

W

ith help from our community, CHKD continues to be a truly special place – one that’s just for kids, offering unique services available nowhere else in the region and comprehensive care that makes a meaningful difference to children like Grace.

As a baby, Grace was diagnosed with sickle cell disease – a genetic blood disorder – that has led to many visits to the emergency department throughout her young life. Even a simple fever means an immediate trip to CHKD for lab work, IV fluids, and antibiotics to guard against serious infections.

Despite these challenges, Grace faces each day with courage and a smile. She is a proud Girl Scout and loves building with Legos.

Through CHKD’s Sickle Cell Program, which follows patients through age 21, a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, and staff takes a comprehensive approach to Grace’s care that’s designed to address her specific medical, emotional, spiritual, and educational needs.

“To know we have a children’s hospital here is one thing, but it’s another to see the level of care that the staff has toward the children and parents,” says Grace’s dad, Mike. “It’s definitely been an eye-opener.”

Creating this kind of nurturing environment is possible thanks to the generosity of our donors. With your support, CHKD continues to be a place families like Grace’s count on for compassionate care.

Make a Gift Before December 31 Give now. You can make a difference for children at CHKD right now. Use the enclosed envelope or donate securely online – scan the QR code here or visit CHKD.org/GiveCHKD. Become a monthly donor. Monthly donations help us meet the needs of CHKD and the families we serve all year long, and recurring gifts can be changed or stopped at any time. Scan the QR code above.

Double your donation through a corporate match.

Many companies will match donations, making your gift go even further for our children. Search your employer at CHKD.org/MatchYourGift.

Transfer stock. Appreciated securities make a valuable gift while providing you with potential tax benefits. Ask your broker to transfer shares directly to CHKD; find our account details at CHKD.org/Donate.

Set up a donor-advised fund. You can use the flexibility of your DAF to recommend a grant or recurring grants directly to CHKD. Contact your fund administrator to make a gift.

Make a distribution from your IRA. If you are 70 years and 6 months or older, you can make a gift to CHKD from your IRA to save on taxes. For those 73 or older, this can help you meet your required minimum distributions. Contact your IRA administrator to request a qualified charitable distribution to CHKD.

This information is not intended as legal or tax advice. Please consult an attorney or tax advisor to determine what is best for your personal circumstances.

Learn about more smart giving options at CHKD.org/Donate.

22 Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

Make a Lasting Impact at CHKD

E

very year, thousands of children and their families rely on CHKD – for preventive care, chronic illnesses, sudden injuries, mental health concerns, and so much more. And generous support from our community allows us to be there for every family, every step of the way.

Planned gifts to CHKD – no matter the size – make an even greater difference, helping us care for the children who need us right now and thousands more who will turn to us for care in the future.

Plan Today for a Better Tomorrow There are many ways to create a legacy at CHKD and spread hope for generations to come. Planned giving at CHKD may include bequests, trusts, annuities, and more. To help you get started, CHKD has partnered with FreeWill, an online resource that helps you write or update your will in just a few minutes, at no cost. Just scan the QR code here.

Learn more about legacy and estate giving at CHKD.org/PlannedGiving.

Beth Duke Legacy Society

Beth Duke, pictured in 2017 with CHKD patient Alexa Crawley

By including a gift to CHKD in your estate plans, you become a member of the Beth Duke Legacy Society, a group named after chief fundraiser, public relations leader, and beloved advocate Beth Duke, who dedicated her life’s work to ensuring all children receive the care they need, regardless of their family’s financial situation.

You can join this exclusive group of donors by creating your own legacy of health, healing, and hope. If you’ve already included a gift to CHKD in your estate plans, visit CHKD.org/PlanningGiving to let us know. We would love to thank you for your commitment to children’s health and welcome you into our Beth Duke Legacy Society.

Our philanthropy team is happy to share more about the power of planned giving.

To speak with a team member, contact our office at (757) 668-7070 or Legacy@CHKD.org.

Fall 2025 23

Our Donors Make a Difference In June, CHKD celebrated 50 years of our Mobile Intensive Care Program and debuted a new ambulance, equipped to transfer both critically ill newborns and children of all ages to CHKD. The vehicle, which features the artwork of local artist OnieTonie, was purchased with help from Chartway Credit Union’s Chartway Promise Foundation. Shown below is Foundation President Christine Wilson and Credit Union CEO Brian Schools during a tour of the ambulance.

Atlantic Union Bank – “a local bank that cares” – has recently partnered with CHKD to provide ongoing support for our patients and their families, fulfilling the bank’s promise of enriching the lives of the people and communities they serve. Shown here, Atlantic Union Bank’s Latisha Brown (left) and Lisa Morgan (right) present this year’s $5,000 donation to CHKD’s John Muszkewycz.

For two weeks every May, Taylor’s Do It Center locations across Hampton Roads ask customers to round up their total to support CHKD’s Mental Health Program. Over the past three years, associates have raised $23,370 for these critical services. Presenting this year’s donation to CHKD’s John Muszkewycz (left) are Taylor’s Assistant Store Manager Michelle Lapage, Communications Director Meg Walbridge, and cashier Mary Ann Hitchings.

Through the Subaru Loves to Care campaign, Subaru of America partners with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to provide cozy blankets and inspiring message boards to CHKD patients, bringing comfort and encouragement during their hospital stay. Pictured at the most recent delivery are CHKD’s Tiffany Hurst, Stephanie Langevin, and John Muszkewycz, RK Subaru’s Daven Jensen and April Sorensen, and CHKD’s Sam Sachs, junior volunteer, and Tricia Taylor.

Partner with CHKD! We rely on support from local groups to provide the critical programs and services our children and families need, close to home. Find out how you can help.

24 Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

Parenting and Professional Resources from CHKD Dedicated to providing quality information based on recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, CHKD offers classes, conferences, webinars, and more for parents and professionals interested in gaining knowledge, skills, and confidence in parenting. From parent education to children’s health, mental wellness, injury prevention, and sports performance, CHKD has got you covered.

Upcoming programs include: • Esports and Gaming • AI in Healthcare • Raising Healthy Kids • Take Ten! Positive Parenting Tips, On Demand • Talking Fatherhood Podcasts • CPR • and more!

Be a Team CHKD Hero CHKD Health System offers careers in both clinical and non-clinical fields from entry-level to experienced professionals throughout our 45 locations. If you want to make a difference in the lives of children, apply for a position with CHKD today.

Find balance in life and work. In addition to traditional medical, dental, and vision care, we offer generous time off that starts accruing on your first day, and two personal days off each year. Employees also have free 24/7 access to our gym, discounts, and a suite of additional popular benefits.

Your family matters to us, too. Our family-focused benefits include paid parental leave, dependent care reimbursement, and best of all, no copays or deductibles for most CHKD services for dependents using a CHKD health plan!

We’ll help with your education. CHKD is proud to offer student loan repayment for eligible employees, and tuition assistance for those currently enrolled in a degree program.

Visit CHKD.org/Classes to see our schedule and read our latest Community Connections bulletin.

Learn more about working at CHKD and browse current openings at CHKD.org/Careers.

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