Transforming Moments

Hannah’s Story

More Growth

With the final phase of the TCU expansion underway, renovations began this summer on the hospital’s playground. Surrounded by the hospital’s interior walls, the playground provides a calm and therapeutic environment for patients, families and visitors. The new playground, which is expected to open in October, will include an accessible play structure with two levels and various activity panels providing visual, auditory and tactile stimulation. It also will have some equipment that requires walking and a transfer station for patients with limited mobility.

“The playground can be used at any point during the day for patients, families and visitors,” said Vernita Easely, CTRS, Recreation Therapy Manager. “It also will allow more social interaction with siblings.”

The playground’s courtyard will include a water feature and seasonal flowers while two raised garden areas located at wheelchair level will allow patients to plant and water flowers and watch them grow.

A New Hannah

Although nine-year-old Hannah attended public school for a few years, she missed many weeks because of illness. Lori was beginning to consider a home-bound program when Hannah returned to the TCU and enrolled in the Hospital Education Program. (The Hospital Education Program is a state-operated program administered through the Richmond Public School System.) She’s done so well that she participated in an extended school program this summer.

“Even though Hannah is disabled,” Lori said, “she has her own way of learning things.”

Lori said Hannah has learned to actively make choices and use assistive technology devices to communicate. She is more likely to sit up in her wheelchair and has gone on TCU outings to area museums and an accessible playground. Described by her mom as a “girly girl,” Hannah also loves to get her hair and nails done.

In June, Hannah began using a Passy-Muir, or speaking valve, with her tracheotomy. The device has significantly reduced Hannah’s secretions, allowing her breathing to improve and her vocalization to take off.

“She laughs now,” said Hope Quesenberry, RRT, NPS, Manager of Respiratory Care. “Her lifestyle is changing because of it.”

With decreased secretions, Hope said, the need to suction Hannah’s tracheotomy has been reduced 45 to 50 percent, giving her more freedom to enjoy the world around her.

“Being on the TCU is really what’s best for her,” agreed Lori, who appreciates the regular contact she has with TCU staff. The family visits often, attending monthly conferences, family days, TCU dinners and outings whenever possible. They also have taken Hannah home for the day and are planning a birthday party at home this fall. That’s good news for the two family dogs, who Lori said “miss Hannah like crazy.” (Medicaid allows unlimited daytime outings and 18 overnight outings per year.)

“Families are the experts in their child’s care,” remarked Pat Anderson, RN, MS, CRRN, Director of Inpatient Services. “We really value their input and participation.”

“Children’s Hospital of Richmond is awesome because they know I’m only a phone call away,” Lori said. “It was always my intention to have Hannah at home, but I realized what’s best for her is here. I wouldn’t trade this place for the world.”

Page 2 of 2  <  1 2

Back to Transforming Moments

The information on this site is provided for informational and educational purposes only; it does not contain specific medical advice. If you have specific health questions or problems, consult a health care professional for personal medical advice.