May 2017
Susan
Aragon
,
RN, BSN
Infectious Diseases Division
Children's Hospital Los Angeles
Los Angeles
,
CA
United States
I just wanted to share with you what an amazing job Susy has done with one of our patients. We have a child with congenital toxoplasmosis that was referred to CHLA for a second opinion at 8 months of age from Las Vegas. This infant was started on a ketogenic diet by our neurology team and has done immeasurably better since transferring her care here. Our team was to continue her toxoplasma therapy. That being said, trying to get the very rare toxoplasma medication formulated in such a way that does not affect her ketogenic diet is a Herculean task that Susy has shouldered with a smile. To make things extra difficult, the family still lives in Las Vegas and also sees a Toxoplasma specialist in Chicago who is heavily involved in decision making. Regardless, it is Susy who arranges for all of her labs, pharmacy, and insurance approvals to get this girl her medications. This week has been exceptionally challenging as the insurance, pharmacy, and the child's own pediatrician have all effectively said they are no longer able to help. Susy has persisted. She remains this child's biggest advocate and has gone far above and beyond the call of duty to make sure this child gets the medications she needs. I am inspired by her dedication and continued efforts on behalf of this girl and her family. This is why we went into pediatrics, to fight for kids who can't fight for themselves. Susy truly exemplifies this super-hero mentality!