Veronika came into our healthcare system after having nausea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. She was sent from one of our Urgent Care facilities to our Emergency Department where she was taken for an MRI and then to surgery for a laparoscopic appendectomy, as her appendix had perforated. Throughout her admission, Veronika had two IV starts, multiple lab draws, and a JP drain was placed during her surgery. Veronika went home with the JP drain and antibiotics. This was a very stressful and traumatic hospitalization. Veronika was in pain but persisted through by blowing bubbles and a pinwheel to increase her lung capacity, and worked very hard to complete her sticker chart for ambulation. Veronika did a great job at pushing herself through her pain to complete her medical care plan.

“She presents with a shy personality when you first enter her room, but once you start talking and visiting with Veronika, she shows you her adorable giggle and smile that lights up a room!” said her Child Life Specialist Kayleigh Stark. She was nominated by her Child Life Specialist at Cox Health Dee Ann White Women’s and Children’s Hospital. Kids Wish Network is so happy to reward Veronika as a Hero!